Inspiration Everywhere: Water Lilies
This week’s Inspiration Everywhere dives into the green and cream pile of our Art Deco carpet, titled Water Lilies. Why is Water Lilies one of the premier examples of our Art Deco collection? With its realism-inspired design, continue reading to discover what inspirations went into Water Lilies design and how its realism-inspired design captivates audiences.
Measuring 4’2” x 6′, Water Lilies utilizes Orley Shabahang’s very own Cheshmeh weave, which has a plush pile and a durable foundation. The beautiful blends of green, blue, pink, red, and gold yarn originate from organic vegetable dyes. Traditional Persian weaver still prefers and utilizes these dyes for the bright tones and fade-resistant attributes. However, the cream foreground tones come from un-dyed, natural shades of cream wool. The marbling within the design is purposeful and occurs when weavers utilize hand-spun yarn. These lines are called striations and are intentional. They provide additional depth and clarity to the motifs.
With most Orley Shabahang designs, owner and lead designer Bahram Shabahang finds influences through nature. Water Lilies was inspired by the everglades in Florida while on vacation with his family. Bahram loved the beauty of the water lilies and how similar the lily flowers look to traditional Persian flower motifs. With this in mind, Bahram utilized a Persian garden theme and recreated the everglade lilies in a large-scale contemporary pattern. Multiple shades of green fill in the circular lily design, while pops of red and blue flowers provide character and life to the carpet. Additional speckles of red, green, and blue wool were used in the cream foreground color to add contrast and clarity.
Overall, Water Lilies’ realistic and tranquil scene evokes happiness transforms interiors. Since this piece measures just over 4′ x 6′, this carpet is perfect for a living room, bedroom, or anywhere small area carpeting is needed. Along with this piece, Water Lilies comes in several different sizes and weaves. To see other versions of Water Lilies, or would like to see what else the Orley Shabahang Art Deco collection has to offer, check out our website or our digital showroom at 1stdibs.com!