Ghalin History

TITLE: Silk Medallion and Arabesque Carpet

ORIGIN: Center of Iran, Kashan, Isfahan Province

EOCH. PERIOD: Safavid Empire, Iran

DATE: 16^th Century

MATERIAL: Silk

TECHNIQUE: Persian knot, 998, 400 knots per sq. m (644 knots per sq.in)

• 96 knots per 10 cm. across
• 104 knots per 10 cm. lengthwise

DIMENSIONS : 250 x 150 cm (98 x 59 in.)

• Warp of yellow silk
• Weft of yellow silk
• Silk Pile

LOCATION: Collection of the Musée des Gobelins, Paris, France

NOTE:

This carpet exhibits a distinctive coloring scheme and features a prominent medallion design. The central “Toranj” of the carpet is divided into four sections. Throughout the background, one can observe scattered flowers and foliage. Notably, within the “Toranj,” there are four delicate and uniquely designed flowers. In the square of the central part of the carpet showcases a quarter of the “Toranj,” adorned with leaf patterns, creating a harmonious contrast with the central “Toranj” in terms of both design and color.

The background’s central portion is characterized by a striking red hue, providing a captivating color contrast with the adjacent yellow border. The border, consisting of three distinct parts, each exhibits its own unique design. The primary yellow border features intricate foliage motifs, complemented by tiny surrounding flowers.

This carpet stands out as one of the most exquisite silk carpets from the Safavid era, with a comparable example housed in the Metropolitan Museum of New York.