This magnificent 12'7 x 19'5 Antique Persian Kashan rug from the 1930s is an extraordinary palace size masterpiece woven with refined craftsmanship and the soft, velvety wool that Kashan workshops of early twentieth century Persia were celebrated for. Nearly one hundred years old, this piece has matured into a rich antique patina while retaining exceptional condition. The pile remains soft and luxurious, the structure is solid, and the original fringes have been intentionally left uneven to preserve the full authenticity of this historic work.

The design follows the classical Kashan medallion composition. A grand medallion rests at the center of a deep wine burgundy field, surrounded by lush floral vines, scrolling tendrils, and the characteristic Shah Abbasi motifs found in high grade Kashan rugs. The layering of motifs is intricate, balanced, and masterfully detailed, showcasing the skill of the workshop that produced it.

Colors

This antique Kashan displays one of the richest and most mature palettes found in collectible Persian rugs. The dominant color is deep burgundy red, forming the primary field, infilling the space between floral vines, and shaping the outer ground surrounding the medallion. This red has aged into a velvety, saturated tone with subtle natural variations typical of vegetable dyes used in the 1930s.

The second most prominent color is midnight navy blue, which fills the interior of the medallion, the spandrels, and large sections of the borders. This navy provides contrast and dimensionality, causing the floral patterns to stand forward with clarity.

The borders contain significant amounts of aged gold, especially in the inner and outer guard borders, and in certain detailing around the medallion. This gold has softened over time into a warm, antique glow, giving the entire rug an elevated elegance.

Salmon rose appears throughout the borders as background filler behind floral vines. It softens the transitions between the darker tones and adds antique character that is unique to Kashan rugs from this era.

Accent colors such as light blue, azure, teal green, olive, walnut brown, ivory, and charcoal appear in the floral rosettes, boteh leaves, vine scrolls, corner spandrels, and medallion tracery work. These accents give the rug movement and artistic depth.
Every color has mellowed beautifully over nearly a century, producing the refined patina that collectors prize in true antique Persian carpets.

Materials and Craftsmanship

This rug is woven with exceptionally soft Persian wool on a cotton foundation. The wool used in 1930s Kashan workshops is known for its sheen, durability, and gentle feel underfoot. The knotting is fine, the design execution is crisp, and the overall weaving quality reflects a high grade workshop piece suitable for palace halls and affluent estates of the early twentieth century.

Condition

Despite its age, the rug has survived remarkably well. Pile retention is excellent, colors remain strong, and the structure is stable. The fringes are original and uneven, which confirms authenticity and has deliberately been preserved. No repairs are visible that interrupt the design.