381. A glorious Antique Khorrosan 'Mashad' Persian Rug

381. Provenance: Khorrosan, 'Mashad', Northeastern Persia

Size: 179 x 117 cm

Age: circa 1900

Condition: Evenly low pile. Generally very good for age.

Notes: These 'Mashads' (named after the city from which they are traded) are among my favourite Persian floral rugs. The old ones used conchineal (crushed beetles) which gave a cool blue-ish mauve red. Because of the expense of this dye and its general decline, newer ones don't use it, and they have a harsher, more red overall look. All natural dyes in this beautiful piece.