A Fereghan gallery carpet, North Persia

Skinner, Boston, 12 April 1997, lot 224

James D. Burns, Visions of Nature, Iceland, 2010, pl .121, pp. 346-347

Pile generally low to knotheads and foundation overall. Oxidized light greens as typical of carpets from this region. Scattered repiled foldwear in lower areas throughout; well executed and difficult to detect. Sides later overcast and fraying in areas. Upper end with rewoven end guard border. Lower end partially rewoven, both ends with glue residue on reverse. Very supple handle. Please note that a license may be required to export textiles, rugs and carpets of Iranian origin from the United States. Clients should enquire with the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) regarding export requirements. Please check with the Carpet department if you are uncertain as to whether a lot is subject to this restriction or if you need assistance with such enquiries
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.

Large format carpets with multiple serrated medallions as in this carpet are rare.  The design is most often used on smaller rugs which employ a single medallion, such as Sotheby's London, The Toms Collection, 7 June 1995, lot 7; Sotheby's New York, 6 June 2007, lot 147; and one sold in these rooms three times, 2 April 2004, lot 285; 10 April 1997, lot 144 and 23 November 1985, lot 45.  The faces that appear in the center side flanking medallions here are also in ex-Toms Collection rug.  A related large two medallion example on a red ground is published, Eberhart Herrmann, Seltene Orientteppiche III, Munich, pl. 75.