Antique Tabriz Benlian rug, Azerbaijan, NW Iran, early 20th century

8'05 x 11'02 Early twentieth century Antique "Benlian" Tabriz Carpet, Persia - This extravagantly beautiful antique Tabriz was produced in the workshop established in Tabriz by the British-Armenian firm of Benlian, whose distinctive star cartouche is visible in the upper lefthand corner of the inner minor border. The field design consists of an almost windblown leafy medallion filled with delicate vines and flowers. Similar forms on a larger scale comprise the cornerpieces with a lovely sky blue ground in the intervening space, filled sparingly by additional vines and flowers. A stunning classical Persian arabesque border frames the entire composition, utilizing the same blue and cream tones, but punctuated by red outlines for added effect or emphasis. A flawless combination of superior design and color. Nazmiyal Collection