Material: Sheep Wool on Cotton Foundation

Size & Knottage: 12.11 X 10.8 feet; 81 knots per square inch.

Age: About 80 years.

This vintage hand-knotted carpet originates from Mashhad in the historic weaving center of Khorasan Razavi Province, northeastern Iran, a region renowned for producing richly detailed, artistic and durable Persian rugs. The design is centered around the iconic Tree of Life motif, a powerful symbol in Persian art representing eternity, spiritual growth, paradise, and the connection between earth and heaven. From a central trunk, finely drawn branches filled with flowers and birds spread symmetrically across the field. At the base intertwined snacks, birds and foliage reflect the harmony of life. The deep madder red field provides a stunning backdrop, contrasted by tones of ivory, indigo, turquoise, and soft blues. Multiple floral borders frame the composition with classical Mashhad elegance. The Tree of Life motif requires much longer to make because weaver cannot work from memory and they follow a complex "Talim" (pattern map) for every single row of knots. Mashad rugs are intentionally woven with slightly larger knots to maintain a thick, plush pile that feels soft underfoot. With this density, the rug is built for durability and comfort.

~Eina Ahluwalia