A Late 19th century Persian Tabriz rug. Finely woven with an intricate all-over design. Abstract floral motifs with falling leaves are symetrically arranged in rows within a multi stepped border. Multiple shades of red, coral, pink, interact with nuetrals and mid tone blue on a turqoise field. Tabriz, the capital of the northwestern Iranian province of Azerbaijan, has for centuries enjoyed a great reputation as a center of Persian culture. Under the benign patronage of Shah Abbas the Great (1587-1629), artists and artisans designed illuminated manuscripts, embroidered silks, painted miniatures and fabricated metal work in the Safavid style. It was in this fertile, creative atmosphere that the weavers of Antique Persian rugs for the Court were inspired to reach for new artistic heights and created exceptional antique oriental rugs and carpets. The art of carpet-weaving was handed down from generation to generation and considered a family treasure, allowing artists to ply a respected trade.