Antique Large Kashan – Mohtasham Persian Floral Knotted Rug, Circa Date: 1880s. This exceptional Persian weaving represents the pinnacle of late 19th-century Kashan production, specifically attributed to the master workshops of Mohtasham. The density of the knotting and the complexity of the design immediately distinguish this piece among antique rugs, offering a rare glimpse into the technical artistry of the Qajar period.
The field is rendered in a magnificent, aged salmon or rose hue, which has mellowed beautifully over time into a sophisticated rust red color. This dense, all-over pattern, often associated with the *Vase and Garden* design, is populated by intricate vines, blooming palmettes, and subtle depictions of deer and other fauna nestled within the foliage, showcasing the weaver’s meticulous attention to detail.
A striking contrast is achieved by the wide main border, executed in a deep indigo blue. This border features a repeating sequence of stylized palmettes and large, elegant boteh motifs, providing a necessary structural frame for the exuberance of the central field. The skillful use of natural dyes ensures a rich, harmonious patina that speaks to the rug’s considerable age and quality.
Given its impressive dimensions, this piece falls into the category of large oversized big rug, making it an ideal anchor for a formal dining room or a grand salon. The Mohtasham Kashan is not merely a floor covering but a woven testament to the opulence and technical mastery of the Qajar Dynasty’s finest textile artists, retaining its historical gravitas and aesthetic power.
