This exceptional Malayer rug features a striking open-field design set against a warm and inviting camel hair background — the natural, undyed wool of the Bactrian camel providing a honey-toned foundation of unique warmth and organic beauty. Three prominent axial medallions in deep navy blue adorned with geometric patterns in baby blue, soft pink, and elegant French blue create a composition of formal authority and quiet refinement.
The refined cream-colored field within the medallions is delicately adorned with a subtle paisley motif, adding layers of intricate detail for the close observer, while the corner spandrels showcase the classic Herati design against a rich navy background. Camel hair Malayer rugs are among the most prized pieces in the Western Persian village rug tradition. The Malayer district of Western Persia — located in the Hamadan province, east of the Zagros Mountains — produced village rugs of remarkable quality and diversity throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries. Malayer rugs are distinguished by their fine weave, their inventive use of design formats drawn from both the Hamadan and Sarouk traditions, and a palette of naturally dyed wool whose depth and complexity reward close study. The finest Malayer rugs, particularly those in the camel hair field and Herati allover formats, are among the most sought-after village rugs of Western Persia.
Dimensions: 4' 11" x 10' 4"
Date of Manufacture: 3rd Quarter of the 1900s
Place of Origin: Persia (Malayer district)
Material: Wool pile on a cotton foundation with vegetable dyes
