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Lot Essay
The present lot belongs to the acclaimed group of classical 17th century Isfahan carpets woven during the Safavid period. When Shah 'Abbas moved his capital to Isfahan he set up workshops which fell under state patronage. Quality was of particular importance and this period in history has been coined the 'golden age of the Persian pile carpet' (Sphuler, F. Islamic Carpets and Textiles in the Keir Collection,London, 1978 p.68).
Various arguments have been put forward suggesting that this group is the wool variation of the silk and metal thread 'Polonaise' carpets which are also attributed to Isfahan (see note to lot 96). The rug offered here is a superb example from this group and is in remarkably good condition. A similar example was sold at Sotheby's New York, 10 April 1997 lot 114.
For a further discussion of this group please see the introductory chapter to the catalogue of of the Bernheimer Family Collection of Carpets, sold in these Rooms, London , 14 February 1996, pages 15-16.
Various arguments have been put forward suggesting that this group is the wool variation of the silk and metal thread 'Polonaise' carpets which are also attributed to Isfahan (see note to lot 96). The rug offered here is a superb example from this group and is in remarkably good condition. A similar example was sold at Sotheby's New York, 10 April 1997 lot 114.
For a further discussion of this group please see the introductory chapter to the catalogue of of the Bernheimer Family Collection of Carpets, sold in these Rooms, London , 14 February 1996, pages 15-16.