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Prayer Rug, 1800s. Creator: Unknown
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Prayer Rug, 1800s. Creator: Unknown
Prayer Rug, 1800s. Elaborate arched panels with multiple borders similar to this textile formed the mosaic-like interior walls of imperial tents. Here, the field is dominated by a richly decorated cypress tree above peacocks and dragon heads on an ornate foliate ground. Bright white silk " pearl" outlines, vines, and ringlets in chain-stitch embroidery enliven the pattern on contrasting colours of fulled wool. Internationally fashionable botehs, or paisleys, decorate the outer red borders. Although this patchwork technique was recorded in Iran in the 1670s, most examples survive from the 19th century, when foreigners praised them as " really [the] most beautiful embroidery." The technique appears in furnishing fabrics, horse covers, as well as imperial portraits, including one depicting the Qajar monarch Fath Ali Shah, who ruled in 1797-1837
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Media ID 19642127
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
Chain Stitch Iran Wool Embroidery Rasht
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This print showcases a Prayer Rug from the 1800s, its creator remaining unknown. The rug's intricate design features elaborate arched panels and multiple borders that resemble the mosaic-like walls of imperial tents. The dominant element in the field is a beautifully adorned cypress tree, positioned above peacocks and dragon heads on an ornate foliate ground. Chain-stitch embroidery brings life to the pattern with bright white silk "pearl" outlines, vines, and ringlets, contrasting against the rich colors of fulled wool. The outer red borders are embellished with internationally fashionable botehs or paisleys. Although this patchwork technique was first recorded in Iran during the 1670s, most surviving examples date back to the 19th century when they received high praise from foreigners who considered them as "really [the] most beautiful embroidery". This technique extended beyond prayer rugs into various forms such as furnishing fabrics and horse covers. One notable use of this art form is seen in an imperial portrait depicting Fath Ali Shah, who reigned over Iran from 1797 to 1837 as part of the Qajar dynasty. This particular style originated in Rasht, Iran and represents a remarkable fusion of chain stitch embroidery, heritage artistry, inlaid work, silk embroidery using wool material. Preserved by The Cleveland Museum of Art under Heritage Art/Heritage Images' care for posterity; this stunning piece exemplifies Iranian craftsmanship at its finest – a testament to both cultural heritage and artistic excellence.
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