This is a small-format Persian Ardebil, 1'3" by 2', hand-knotted in wool and silk on a cotton foundation. Rugs in this size were originally woven as samples, made by the workshop to show a customer exactly how the full-size version would look, knot for knot, before commissioning a room-size piece. They are not made anymore, and the surviving examples have become scarce and collectible in their own right, complete miniature rugs that carry the full design and quality of their larger counterparts. This one stands on its own as a genuine handmade Persian rug, equally at home on a small table, in an entry, or framed and hung as art.

Design and Motifs

The red field is centered on a bold geometric stepped medallion in ivory, navy, and royal blue, its core filled with small hooked panels and a central rosette, anchored by serrated leaf pendants reaching toward each end. Ivory corner spandrels frame the field with stylized blue and navy leaf sprays, a crisp counterpoint to the warm red ground. The border system is impressive for so small a rug: a salmon main band carries a running geometric meander, flanked by navy and powder blue guard stripes of boxes and diamonds, all wrapped in clean ivory selvages and finished with natural fringe at both ends. Nothing about the design is abbreviated; it is a full Ardebil rendered in miniature.

Colors and Placement

The palette is classic northwest Persian: a rich red ground with navy, royal and powder blue, ivory, salmon, and touches of olive and camel, with the silk content in the pile giving the blues and ivories a soft sheen that catches the light. The wool and silk blend makes the small surface feel richer and more lustrous than wool alone. It suits an entry, a console or side table, a nightstand, a windowsill, or a small frame, and its size and history make it a memorable gift or a first collectible Persian piece for someone starting out.

Origin and Construction

Ardebil, in the far northwest of Persia near the Azerbaijan border, is one of the country's historic weaving names, known for crisp geometric drawing and durable, finely made rugs. This piece is hand-knotted with a wool and silk pile on a cotton foundation, the silk lifting the highlights while the wool keeps it sturdy, and it is in excellent, never used condition with full pile and clean fringe. As a small sample-era weaving that is no longer produced, it offers an affordable way to own an authentic, collectible piece of Persian craftsmanship.