Vintage Persian Kashan 'Tree of Life' Rug in Fine Kork Wool with Silk Highlights

A masterpiece of mid-century Persian artistry, this exquisite Kashan rug is a woven ode to the legendary gardens of Paradise. 

Hand-knotted circa 1960 in the historic city of Kashan— a centre of weaving excellence since the 16th century — this piece captures the soul of Persian design with its sophisticated execution of the revered 'Tree of Life' motif.

The design unfolds across a field of lustrous, velvety Kork wool, a premium-grade lambswool prized for its extraordinary softness and subtle sheen. From a single, elegant trunk, a symphony of branches unfurls, teeming with pairs of finely detailed birds—symbolic messengers between the earthly and celestial realms. The entire composition is a vibrant ecosystem of palmettes, blossoms, and scrolling vines, rendered in a harmonious palette of warm neutrals, dusty rose, sky blue, and sage, all framed by a deep indigo border that lends the piece a profound and grounding presence.

What elevates this rug to a work of art is the weaver's masterful use of light. Delicate highlights of pure silk have been meticulously inlaid to outline the petals and feathers, creating a subtle shimmer that breathes life and dimension into the design. With an exceptionally fine weave of approximately 300-350 knots per square inch, the details are rendered with painterly precision, allowing for the graceful, curvilinear forms that are the hallmark of the Kashan school.

Measuring a versatile 210 x 130 cm, this rug is perfectly scaled to serve as a captivating focal point in a study, entryway, or intimate seating area. It is more than a floor covering; it is a piece of history, a story woven in wool and silk that brings a timeless narrative of harmony, growth, and beauty into the home. In excellent, professionally cleaned condition, it is ready to anchor both traditional and contemporary interiors with its enduring elegance.

Dimensions: Height: 210 cm x Width: 130 cm 

Style: Kashan, Persia (Iran)

Materials and Techniques: Hand-Knotted, Asymmetrical Knot, Fine Kork Wool Pile on Cotton Foundation, Silk Inlay

Period: Circa 1960

Condition: Very good. Professionally cleaned. Full, even pile with a soft, luxurious pile. Structurally sound with secure ends and sides.. Consistent with its vintage character and handmade nature, there are some minor loose threads along the sides; these are superficial and do not affect the rug's structural integrity