Lot 25
  • 25

A Kashan 'Mohtasham' carpet

Estimate
30,000 - 40,000 GBP
bidding is closed

Description

  • Wool, pile
  • approximately 280 by 250cm; 9ft. 2in., 8ft. 2in.
of unusual design

Condition

Overall measurements; 240cm across the top, 250cm across the bottom, 280cm the left hand side, 269cm the right hand side. Very good condition. Dense pile overall, evenly clipped, generally 2-3mm. Both ends with warp fringes overlocked, lower end with original barber pole finish; minor restorations to side cords. Fantastic quality wool, unusual design. A really lovely piece in great condition.
"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."

Catalogue Note

The term ‘Mohtasham’ refers to the revered master weaver Hajji Mollah Mohammad Hassan Mohtasham (active circa 1840 – 1885). Mohtasham is known only through a handful of existing signed works and now the term ‘Mohtasham’ is used amongst carpet connoisseurs to describe works produced in Kashan, toward the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th century, of excellent quality and design, utilising the remarkably velvety kurk wool. For further reading on the master and ‘Mohtasham’ works see Azadi, Siawosch, ‘The Mark of Mohtasham’ , Hali, 2009, Issue 160, pp. 66 – 73, or Bennett. I., ‘The Myth of Mohtasham’, Hali, 1987, Issue 35, pp.44-49. Also the catalogue entry for the carpet attributed to the Mohtasham workshop, Sotheby’s London, 1 November 2016, lot 132. Also see lots 20, 47, 97 and 120 within this sale for other examples of the ‘Mohtasham’ group.