
Untitled
unknown, 1550-1600; Metropolitan Museum of Art
Silken and wool thread
Silken and wool thread
As is typical of an authentic Persian rug, this carpet is intricately detailed with a bountiful assortment of colours and shapes. This particular work found its way into the hands of the Holy Roman Emperors: the work of the Safavid imperial looms, just like Iran's carpet industry today, was renowned for its exquisite quality.