An Isphahan rug, Central Persia

Pile ranges from 1/10in to low to knotheads and foundation with repiling to lowest areas, especially in red field. A 5 in by 1/4 in reweave in upper right corner; a 2 in by 3 in reweave; smaller scattered reweaves along central axis, not extensive. Partial end guard borders reselvaged. Luminous color; flexible handle; sound fabric; cloth tape sewn to reserve each end of border.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The present lot belongs to the group of seventeenth-century Isphahan pile weavings characterized by particularly detailed designs including gracefully drawn attenuated cloud bands meandering among a variety of palmettes and flower heads with distinct serrated edges. As in this rug, most of these design elements are executed in multiple hues on a standard red field framed by an indigo border, resulting in a remarkably intense and varied overall color palette. Two Isphahan carpets of this type with almost identical red and ivory elongated palmettes centered by multicolored flower heads in their borders were formerly in the collection of the Corcoran gallery of Art, sold Christie’s New York, November 24, 2009, lot 130 and Sotheby’s New York, June 5, 2013, lot 4.