One-of-a-kind

Keshan Fine Antique ca. 1925Hand KnottedRug

Black / Dark red136 x 208 cm

Keshan rugs originate from the historic city of Kashan in Persia, a legendary desert oasis famous for its rich trading heritage and master weavers along ancient caravan routes. Over centuries, master artisans in this region refined the art of floral and medallion weaving, establishing a tradition that remains celebrated by collectors worldwide.

The craftsmanship behind these pieces relies on traditional hand-knotting techniques passed down through generations. Artisans tie individual loops of wool onto the foundation warp and weft threads, creating a tightly packed pile that stands upright and resists flattening over decades of use.

Signature design elements of a classic Keshan typically include a central floral medallion surrounded by intricate scrolling vines, palmettes, and elaborate multi-layered borders. This particular piece from 1925 displays the characteristic harmony and balanced compositions that defined the golden age of Persian weaving.

Collecting a vintage Keshan of this age means preserving a tangible piece of textile heritage. These rugs are valued not only for their decorative beauty but for the remarkable human skill and cultural history woven directly into their threads.

This rug was meticulously hand-knotted by skilled artisans who dedicated months of careful labour to complete the intricate design. At a density of 250,000 knots per m2, a rug of this 208 x 136 cm size required hundreds of thousands of individual hand-tied knots, reflecting an immense investment of human time and technical skill.

The substantial weight of 10.5 kg combined with the dense knotting speaks directly to the quality of the foundation and the generous amount of natural wool invested in its creation. This careful hand construction ensures superior pattern sharpness, a tight pile structure, and the kind of sturdy resilience that only traditional hand-knotting can achieve.