Description

This southwest Persian Qashqai kelim dates to around 1900.

The field design consists of thirteen horizontal bands symmetrically arranged around the only band on a white ground in the centre: dark blue, red, mid blue, yellow, green and finally red again are the ground colours for the sixteen diamonds decorating each band. These are filled with four stepped diamonds each. The bands are separated by narrower bands with a reciprocal wavey pattern in blue and white.

Stepped concentric half diamonds protrude into the field from the sides and away from the field at the ends. Multiple zigzags around the field continue the theme of strict geometry, which is completed by the addition of three banded panels with chevrons at each end. (For another Qashqai kelim with the same end finish on this website see https://www.christopherleggeorientalcarpets.com/products/view/antique-persian-qashqai-kelim/). Tufts along one long side add to the decorative impact of this powerful kelim.

It is worked in a mix of slit and interlocking tapestry weave in wool and white cotton, with a wide range of colours: three shades of blue, two greens, one red, one orange, three browns including a rather pale ochre and two shades of yellow.

The kelim is relatively finely woven and is in excellent condition.

It brings a smile to your face