Khorassan, Northeast Persia

Overall measurements; 100cm across the top, 152cm at longest point. Mounted, mount 154 by 103cm. Pile varies from 1mm down to knotbars and foundation. Some discolouration in upper border. Extensive repairs, Kashmir stitching and consolidation throughout. First hand inspection is advised, photographs can be requested from the department Remarkable scale 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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Due to the scale of the extant border within this fragment it would likely have originally formed what would have been a large courtly carpet. The expansive nature of the design combined with the colouring would suggest it was initially made in Khorassan, Herat, two comparable fragments to the offered lot are in the Keir Collection, Spuhler. F., Islamic Art In the Keir Collection, Rugby, 1988, pp. 78 & 79, T26 and T27.

The appeal to Hodgkin would likely have been its mysterious nature. He partly collected through intrigue and in his own work 'Travelling', lot 317, Hodgkin creates this mood through concealment of identity - taking away such a literal viewpoint is possibly what drew him to the present lot.