| Exact size in ft: | Width: 19'11" x Length 20'2" |
| Size in Inch: | Width: 239 in x Length: 242 in |
| Size in Meter | Length: 6.16 x Width: 6.06 |
| Some of many colors in this rug: |
Red, ivory, Tan, blue, gold, green, beige, brown |
| Woven: | 100% Handmade and Hand-knotted |
| Foundation: | Cotton |
| Pile: | Kork (best wool from neck of the sheep) |
| Shape: | Square |
| Style: | Traditional Mashad Astan Quds |
| Origin: | Persian Mashad made in Iran |
| KPSI | 400 - 450 |
| Condition: | Excellent | Never used | |
Astan Quds Carpets: Crafted with Purpose and Prestige
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Shrine‑commissioned production: Since around 1981, the Astan Quds Carpet Company has produced finely woven carpets specifically for the Imam Reza Shrine. They handle everything—from raw materials and design to dyeing, weaving, finishing, and sales.
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Workshop origins: Historic archives reference carpet weaving from Qa'in, Birjand, Dorokhsh, and other Khorasan areas, commissioned to adorn the shrine at least since the Safavid era
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Museum examples: The Astan Quds Museum holds some rare historic pieces—like a Safavid-era Gol Afshan carpet commissioned by Shah Abbas for Imam Reza’s shrine, woven with wool, silver threads, and cotton foundations.
What Makes Astan Quds Rugs Special?
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Institutional provenance
Carpets often bear the signature “Sherkat Farsh Astan‑e Quds” or other workshop marks, indicating shrine affiliation. One 1930 Mashhad rug similarly signed was auctioned at Christie’s -
High craftsmanship standards
Made with premium wool (often Khorasan sheep), sometimes blended with silk or silver threads, and designed to endure heavy ritual and pilgrim traffic. -
Formal, large-scale designs
Typically use densely packed floral medallions and formal layouts—suitable for large mosque spaces—wove in high knot densities and refined aesthetics. -
Cultural and spiritual value
These aren’t just floor coverings; they are ceremonial art pieces tied to one of Shia Islam’s holiest sites. That spiritual context and historical continuity make them prized among collectors.
20x20 Square Persian Mashad Rug
This exquisite Persian Mashad rug, dating back to the pre-revolution era, is a monumental piece measuring a generous 20x20 square feet. Never used and meticulously preserved, this rug is a pristine example of Persian craftsmanship. Its grand scale and intricate design make it a standout piece for any collector or interior space.
Design and Patterns
The rug features a magnificent central medallion, a hallmark of Mashad rugs. This medallion is richly detailed with complex floral motifs and symmetrical patterns that draw the eye inward, creating a focal point of intricate artistry. The medallion is surrounded by a series of nested, intricately patterned fields that radiate outwards, each layer more detailed and colorful than the last.
Colors
The color palette of this rug is a testament to the rich dyes and artistic traditions of Persian rug making. Dominated by deep reds and blues, the rug also features accents of ivory, gold, and various shades of green and beige. These colors are expertly combined to highlight the detailed patterns and motifs, creating a harmonious and visually striking piece.
Border
The border of the rug is equally impressive, featuring a series of complex, interconnected floral and vine patterns. The border frames the central field perfectly, adding a sense of balance and completeness to the overall design. The use of contrasting colors in the border enhances its visibility and adds to the rug's overall aesthetic appeal.
Motifs
This Mashad rug is adorned with traditional Persian motifs, including intricate floral patterns, vine scrolls, and paisleys. These motifs are not only decorative but also carry cultural significance, reflecting the rich heritage of Persian artistry. The precision and detail of these motifs are indicative of the high level of craftsmanship that went into the creation of this rug.
Signatures and Authenticity
As a hallmark of authenticity, the rug bears the signature of its weaver, a practice that adds to its historical and collectible value. This signature is woven into the fabric of the rug, a subtle but important feature that attests to its origins and the skill of its creator.
Condition and Quality
Given its age, the rug is in impeccable condition, having never been used. This ensures that the colors remain vibrant and the fibers strong and intact. The quality of the wool used in this rug is evident in its soft texture and the durability of the weave, promising longevity and resilience.
Conclusion
This pre-revolution Persian Mashad rug is not just a floor covering but a work of art. Its size, design, and condition make it a rare and valuable addition to any collection. Perfect for a grand living room, office, or gallery, this rug is sure to be a conversation piece and a cherished possession for generations to come.
