Early 17th century Safavid carpet Central Persia
At Rugmaster, we take immense pride in our craft of restoring antique rugs to their former glory. One of our recent projects involved the extensive restoration of an exquisite Persian rug, dating back several centuries. This rug, a testament to the rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship of the Safavid era, is a remarkable piece that we are thrilled to showcase in our case studies and gallery sections.
A Glimpse into History: The Safavid Prayer Rug
On 7th October 2009, the world witnessed a significant event in the art world when a Safavid prayer rug from Isfahan, measuring 163 x 110 cm, was sold at Sotheby’s for an astounding £2.7 million. Initially estimated at £80,000, this rug, lot 276, captivated collectors and historians alike with its intricate design and historical significance.
Crafted from silk, wool, and metal thread brocading, the rug is adorned with vivid colours and intricate patterns of palmettes, vines, and curling leaves. Its artistic beauty is further enhanced by a Persian poem inscribed anti-clockwise, calling to prayer Sultan Murad and his Ottoman house, who were regarded as supreme lords of earth and sky. The inscription celebrates their joyful and successful reign, highlighting their throne of justice and good fortune. The poem is attributed to a preacher from Qazvin and the qadi of Mecca, adding a layer of historical depth to the piece.
A Diplomatic Artefact
This extraordinary rug is believed to have been a diplomatic gift commemorating the 1590 Peace Treaty between the Safavid and Ottoman empires. During this period, Abbas was the Safavid Shah, and Murad III was the Ottoman Sultan. The rug's association with the Ottoman court adds to its historical value, making it a significant addition to the collection of 89 so-called Topkapi rugs of Persian design.
Another Notable Sale
Adding to the legacy of Safavid rugs, on 6th October 2010, Sotheby’s sold another Safavid prayer rug, measuring 180 x 112 cm, for £1.16 million. This rug, lot 394, also belongs to the Topkapi group and features a centre design of trees, branches, and vases within a mosque-shaped niche. The borders are adorned with selected verses from the Qur’an, emphasising its spiritual and cultural importance.
The Restoration Journey
Restoring such a magnificent piece was a meticulous and reverent process. Our team at Rugmaster approached the task with the utmost respect for its historical and cultural significance. Every thread and fibre was carefully examined and treated to ensure that the rug's original beauty and craftsmanship were preserved.
We invite you to explore the detailed case study of this restoration project on our website. Witness the transformation of this antique Persian rug as it regains its splendour, ready to be cherished for generations to come.
At Rugmaster, we are honoured to breathe new life into historical masterpieces, preserving their legacy and beauty. Our dedication to excellence ensures that each restored piece continues to tell its story, bridging the past and present in a tapestry of art and history.