Antique Persian Bakhtiari Gallery Carpet

A very attractive antique Bakhtiari gallery carpet with a bold tribal character and an unusually lively design. The elongated dark brown to nearly black field is centered by a vertical succession of five large stepped geometric medallions, primarily in warm madder and terracotta red. Each medallion is individually decorated with small rosettes, hooked devices, crosses and colorful geometric ornaments, giving the carpet wonderful variety rather than a rigidly repetitive appearance. Between the medallions are charming stylized trees, flowering plants, animals and small tribal symbols, which add considerable personality and folk-art appeal. The border is especially effective. A broad ivory main border contains a rhythmic series of angular red forms enclosing small floral devices, while several narrow guard borders in dark blue, red and green frame the field. The diagonal multicolored inner guard gives the carpet additional movement. The color palette is particularly appealing, with deep brown, madder and brick red, ivory, indigo and cobalt blue, turquoise, green, yellow and soft salmon. The close-up also shows the substantial wool pile and sturdy hand-knotted construction characteristic of these durable weavings.