Large Central Medallion Serapi Rug. 140 x 226 in.

Finely composed 19th-century Serapi rug with a dominant madder red field anchored by an imposing hexagonal medallion rendered in shades of deep indigo, ivory, and soft blue. The medallion is crisply articulated with angular floral motifs, stepped contours, and stylized palmettes. Ivory spandrels in the corners echo the medallion’s stepped geometry. Populated by cloudband-like motifs and geometric vine forms. Scattered throughout the field are serrated leaves, rosettes, and split-leaf palmettes arranged in harmonious symmetry. The wide ivory main border frames the composition with a bold rosette-and-vine scroll, flanked by reciprocal minor borders in earthy tones. The overall palette—rich in madder, indigo, ivory, and pale blue—is marked by areas of subtle abrash, lending the rug a sense of depth and movement. This example reflects the hallmark structure and balance of classic Serapi weaving, combining graphic precision with an expressive use of color and form.
 
Dimensions: 140 x 226 in;  (11 ft 8 in x 18 ft 10 in);  (356 x 574 cm)
Style: Serapi (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques: Wool, Hand-Knotted, Hand-Woven
Place of Origin: Iran
Period: Late 19th Century
Date of Manufacture: 1890