Antique Persian Karaja "Starburst & Shield" Rug (Circa 1920s)
Capture the bold, tribal spirit of the Persian Northwest with this exceptional hand-knotted Karaja. Dating to the 1920s, this rug is a fascinating "cross-cultural" masterpiece, blending the signature geometry of the Karaja region with the powerful, sharp aesthetics of Caucasian Kazak designs.
Why It’s Unique
This rug is distinguished by its dramatic scale and the inclusion of rare, "starburst" geometric motifs.
Oversized Starburst Medallion: The centerpiece is a massive, large-scale starburst medallion. Its sharp, contrasting design relief is more closely aligned with rare Caucasian Kazak rugs, giving this Persian piece a unique, edgy character that sets it apart from standard floral carpets.
Classic Karaja Architecture: Flanking the central starburst are the iconic "rectangular minor medallions" that have made Karaja rugs a favorite among collectors for over a century. This combination of the central starburst and flanking shields creates a rhythmic, three-act visual story.
Geometric Pinwheel Field: The field is densely "covered" with an array of geometric floral top-views and charming "pinwheel" elements. These motifs provide a constant sense of movement and energy across the rug’s surface.
A Century-Old Vibrant Palette: The colors are incredibly deep and true, featuring a base of madder root and brick reds. These are accented by a playful spectrum of sky blue, mallard green, tangerine orange, and soft rose.
Condition & Heritage
This antique rug has been professionally cleaned and is in excellent structural condition. It features a mostly even short pile height, providing a clean and crisp look to the intricate patterns.
Note: As an authentic village-made antique, this piece possesses a "charming geometry." One end measures 4'9" while the other is 4'11", and there is a slight natural contour to the overall shape. These variations, along with a light reduction to one outer minor border, are normal margins for a 1920s hand-knotted piece and serve as a testament to its handmade origin.
Product Details
Dimensions: 4'11" x 7'3" (Tapering to 4'9" at one end)
Origin: Hand-knotted in Persia (Karaja region)
Circa: 1920s Antique
Design: Starburst Center Medallion with Karaja Shield Accents
Colors: Madder root red, sky blue, mallard green, ivory, and tangerine
