Early 20th Century Persian Shirvan Rug

This early 20th-century Persian Shirvan rug is a masterclass in color, composition, and scale. Woven by Azerbaijani artisans from the Shirvan region in the eastern Caucasus—an area long celebrated for its intricate village weavings—this piece showcases a rare large-scale scrolling vine and floral pattern, rendered in vibrant shades of crimson, yellow, white, and pale green. The field is set against a deeply abrash indigo ground that shifts beautifully in tone, giving the pattern a sense of movement and depth. The border is no afterthought: a wide band of stylized florals is framed by alternating petite and wide geometric guard borders, all tightly drawn and richly hued. Shirvan rugs are typically known for their fine knotting, crisp lines, and compact scale—making this oversized pattern all the more unusual and desirable. An expressive and well-preserved example, this rug bridges the refinement of Persian design with the lively spirit of tribal craftsmanship.