Ziegler Mahal carpet

Woven in central Persia as fine export pieces specifically for the European market during the late nineteenth century, Ziegler carpets are some of the most graceful weavings of the period. This distinctive, antique oversize carpet elegantly adapts a directional format more typically associated with smaller Persian prayer rugs and meditation carpets. A solitary lamp hangs from a niched portico suspended against a refined modulated terracotta field. Traditional stylized plants are drawn in a row along the bottom while related forms may be found within the slate-blue main border. An ivory counter-niche at the bottom beautifully balances the composition.