Antique Meeshan Malayer Carpet

This antique Persian Meeshan Malayer carpet circa 1900 in pure wool and vegetable dyes consists of a hand-knotted handspun pure wool pile, cotton warp, and wool weft. A four-pointed medallion anchors the design, symbolizing the four natural elements of earth, wind, fire, and water. Contrasting background colors of light almost-white cream with deep almost-black indigo are balanced throughout the field by bright outlines of striated red-orange and delicate green. The intricate floral border is beautifully proportioned to the carpet’s striking central design, while hues of marigold orange and yellow, sky blue, sea green, and rich burgundy red fill the carpet’s decorative motifs. Phoenixes are hidden among the vines and flowers, while an interplay of alternating phoenixes and snakes along the central indigo medallion’s borders symbolizes the struggle of good versus evil. This is an exceptionally fine carpet in fantastic antique condition, and it measures 4′ x 6’3″.