the crimson field with large open palmettes in Safavid Persian style, with trellised vinery, leaves and floral sprays in indigo, saffron, violet, coffee and ivory, the dark charcoal border with palmettes and flowers also inspired by Persian taste.

 

Pile generally very good for age, about 3mm; dark brown of border oxidised, partially to knot bars and with localised areas of oxidisation to foundation (foundation has some old tinting in); mid chestnut brown oxidised to knot bars with some foundation visible; some fold wear in centre of carpet with warps visible - not extensive. There are a few scattered minor areas of re-piling; repaired split, about 15-20cm in length in lower left hand corner, some small cobbled repairs along edges; repaired split (probably due to fold wear) in top right hand corner. Side cords partially rebound. Carpet bows slightly on left hand side. Lovely, flexible handle, overall in very good condition for age; beautiful drawing and colouring, a really handsome example of an early Agra carpet. Please request additional digital images from Harry Grenfell (harry.grenfell@laitexier.com).
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The present work incorporates traditional carpet designs of the 17th century Safavid court, based in Isfahan, Persia. The palmettes are slightly enlarged while the dark brown/charcoal border is a contrast to the typical indigo border found in 17th century examples. During the 18th century, carpet weaving in Persia suffered greatly from the military invasions of the Afghan Shahs. As a result of the chaos carpet weaving in Persia came to a near standstill. Meanwhile the weavers in Mughal India continued to weave extraordinary carpets, capitalising on the distinguished designs of earlier weavers. Supported both by the British Raj and the regional power maintained by the Maharajas, 19th century India experienced accomplished artistic activity, particularly in rug weaving. This carpet displays artistic integrity-in both design and material quality- associated with Safavid and Mughal carpets from the 17th century.

Likely to have been acquired by Lord Crewe circa 1910 during his term as Secretar༺y of State for India.