Antique Persian Ferahan Sarouk Rugs
The finely woven Ferahan carpets of the 19th century were designed for the Persian aristocracy, who valued them for their exceptional craftsmanship, elegance, and spirited artistry. Investment-level Ferahans were not produced after the 1910s and the finer 19th- and turn-of-the-20th-century examples have become quite rare.
The best Ferahan pieces woven 90-175 years ago are considered to be among the most original and artistic room size carpets ever woven in Persia. Their high-grade wool, spirited uncompromising workmanship, sublime color palettes and durable construction have made them the parlor rug of choice of European and East Coast families since the middle of the 19th century.
Today, the best antique Ferahan rugs have become a favorite of connoisseurs and established interior designers, not merely for their great decorative appeal, but because they have long exhibited a consistently escalating market value.
There are a number of distinctive design features which set the fine antique Ferahans apart from the styles of other regions. Their floral motifs show original, inventive, drawing and exceptional delicacy, each blossom varying slightly from the next, both spontaneous and balanced.
Although they are sometimes less detailed than the court carpets of the large cities of Kashan or Isfahan, Ferahans often match their elegance and usually surpass them in their creativity. They offer a wide spectrum of vegetable dyed colors, mellowed to soft yet rich shades. One exemplary color is the depth of the midnight indigo shade they were able to produce and use so effectively as a counterpoint or backdrop to the rest of the subtle Ferahan palette of color. The best Ferahans are also known for their abundant use of seldom-found tones of green, from soft celadon through rich apple green to the deepest forest greens.
The art of streaking color, a technique known as abrash, was developed in Ferahans to a high degree, and is used profusely in 19th century-examples, especially those woven in the pre-commercial period of the 1880s and before. Often in these early pieces, the base color will change dramatically from one end of the field to the other, a traditional technique that can produce great drama and distinction.
Pieces known simply as “Ferahan” are characterized by a close-cropped and tightly packed pile of fine yarn. They typically employ dense allover field patterns, notably the Herati blossom and curling leaf design, epitomizing the exceptional craftsmanship of 19th-century Persian carpets. Pieces of somewhat heavier weave with graciously drawn teardrop- or sunburst-shaped central medallions are called “Ferahan Sarouk”.
Ferahans originated from the Ferahan plain in the Arak district between Hamadan and Tehran, which is one of the most fertile, agriculturally productive areas in Persia. The Ferahan rugs have tribal roots, but since they were primarily produced for a wealthy urban clientele, they developed a style more closely aligned with the rich floral detail of classical rugs. Their multi-lobed medallions owe much to the Tabriz tradition, while their palmettes and other floral motifs exhibit the influence of the nearby Sarouk weavers. The resultant fusion created a never-to-be-repeated hybrid style of elegance through simplicity.
At Claremont Rug Company, we usually avoid Ferahans of the 1920’s and later, as they commonly use some harsh and unappealing artificial dyes along with static and standardized designs.
The 19th-century and turn-of-the-20th-century Ferahan and Ferahan Sarouks in which we proudly specialize are found most often today in the area-size (3ft x 5ft to 4ft 6in x 7ft) and small room-size (7ft x 10ft to 9ft x 12ft) formats. Art-level, room-size pieces in good condition have become less available internationally, especially in the best qualities, while oversize and even palace-size examples are found only very occasionally.
As a whole, true art-level 19th-century Ferahan & Ferahan Sarouks in good floor condition are now very difficult to find overall and extremely highly regarded. They stand solidly in the upper tier of investment-level decorative and collectible antique Persian carpets.
Ferahan Sarouk 4ft 4in x 6ft 1in 2nd Quarter, 19th Century Exotic, seldom-encountered colors and wonderfully inventive designs that appear to evolve on the loom rather than being overly pre-planned are the hallmarks of the finest very early Persian Ferahan rugs. This one-in-the-world representative portrays the age-old “Tree of Life” or “World Tree” motif as an enormous blossoming plant that is literally bursting forth with vitality. Its main border furthers this motif with a continually changing array of blossom and plant forms in exotic shades of color that are not to be found in later rugs. Having been held in private collections for most of its existence, this monumental 175-year-old Oriental rug remains in excellent condition. (Featured in catalog Vol. 25, No. 1, front cover & p.20.) http://www.claremontrug.com/antique-rugs-information/antique-persian-rug-guide/ferahan-ferahan-sarouk-antique-rugs/ferahan-rugs/
Ferahan Sarouk 10ft 7in x 14ft 2in Circa 1875 As in any art form, true standouts are incredibly rare. For over 30 years, we have relied on an ever-expanding proprietary buying network of seasoned connoisseurs to uncover highly unique, superbly crafted antique rug such as this dazzling Ferahan Sarouk carpet. Its kaleidoscope of hues and constant reinvention of every motif are awe-inspiring. From the entrancing medallion of warm coral and deep apple green to its border of fanciful botanical forms, this first-rate antique Persian rug has been preserved in excellent condition. (Featured in catalog Vol. 25 No.1, p.2.) http://www.claremontrug.com/antique-rugs-information/antique-persian-rug-guide/ferahan-ferahan-sarouk-antique-rugs/ferahan-rugs/
FERAHAN - West Central Persian 16ft 9in x 26ft 7in 2nd Quarter, 19th Century Dazzling expanses of naturally dyed leaf green, burnished gold, and soft violet capture the connoisseur’s attention in this tremendously impressive, extremely early Persian Ferahan. Palace size dimensions provide room for the fullest expression of its sought after 150-year-old artistry, as a singular arrangement of nested diamond medallions reveal the nuanced variation of line and deep affinity for color that epitomize the early village weaving tradition. Lush “Herati” patterning, uniquely stylized floral bouquets, and fluid meanders each contribute their individual richness, leaving an oriental carpet that can be savored in detail for years to come. http://www.claremontrug.com/antique-rugs-information/antique-persian-rug-guide/ferahan-ferahan-sarouk-antique-rugs/ferahan-rugs/
Ferahan Sarouk, 4ft 4in x 7ft 1in, 3rd Quarter, 19th Century. One of the crown jewels from a stellar private collection we bought out of Charlottesville, VA, this peerless 140-year-old Persian Ferahan Sarouk rug amply reflects the superlative craftsmanship and individual expression of classical designs seen in the best rugs of this age and earlier. Its unique lozenge-shaped reserve holding a nuanced, painterly medallion is enclosed by an infinitely lush arrangement of expressive vinery. Meticulous rendering and excellent condition for its great age lend unparalleled clarity to this highly collectible Ferahan Sarouk oriental rug. http://www.claremontrug.com/antique-rugs-information/antique-persian-rug-guide/ferahan-ferahan-sarouk-antique-rugs/ferahan-rugs/
FERAHAN, West Central Persian 4ft 5in x 6ft 6in Circa 1875 This quite innovative antique Persian Ferahan area-size Oriental rug offers inventive artistry, an opulent, naturally dyed palette, and remarkable craftsmanship. Presented on an unexpected luminous golden yellow ground, sharply rendered fanciful botanical forms extend in all directions. Its distinctive border, filled with ethereal rose and celadon accents, brilliantly balances the intensity of the field. http://www.claremontrug.com/antique-rugs-information/antique-persian-rug-guide/ferahan-ferahan-sarouk-antique-rugs/ferahan-rugs/
FERAHAN SAROUK, West Central Persian 14ft 8in x 27ft 2in Circa 1825 Perhaps the most deeply sought after carpet in our current collection, this mesmerizing early Ferahan Sarouk exhibits the intricate formality and stunningly balanced design only experienced in the most rarified early art carpets. At almost two centuries of age, its luminous colors still shine with a breathtaking natural patina, elucidating every detail of its symmetrical nested medallions and infinitely detailed floral vinery. Though carpets of this magnitude are all but impossible to find in any size, they are simply never seen in the expansive palace dimensions seen here, making this inimitable art carpet a defining acquisition for even the most accomplished mature collection. http://www.claremontrug.com/antique-rugs-information/antique-persian-rug-guide/ferahan-ferahan-sarouk-antique-rugs/ferahan-rugs/
FERAHAN - West Central Persian 14ft 6in x 18ft 0in Circa 1850 Still in wonderful condition at over 150 years of age, this sublime oversize carpet boasts a panoply of engaging features. These include its very seldom-encountered over-square dimensions, superb level of craftsmanship, deep, glowing patina and magically time-softened colors, attributes only found in carpets of great age. A diminutive diamond medallion provides a harmonious focal point for its sea of Herati patterned flower and curling leaf forms. Note how the field varies continually between midnight indigo, cobalt blue, and walnut brown, creating subtle visual depth. A pale celadon main border and golden saffron inner border lend a sense of lightness and airiness to composition. http://www.claremontrug.com/antique-rugs-information/antique-persian-rug-guide/ferahan-ferahan-sarouk-antique-rugs/ferahan-rugs/
Ferahan 6ft 10in x 10ft 2in Circa 1875 The highly desirable ivory ground and large-scale allover pattern that this fanciful antique oriental carpet offers are seldom found in roomsize Ferahans. Its extremely well preserved, luxurious pile illuminates its lively, naturally dyed palette. The charmingly asymmetrical allover pattern of striking palmettes and playful, flowering vinery attest that this is the work of master weavers whose drawing of every flower and leaf is distinctive http://www.claremontrug.com/antique-rugs-information/antique-persian-rug-guide/ferahan-ferahan-sarouk-antique-rugs/ferahan-rugs/
Ferahan Sarouk 8ft 8in x 11ft 1in 3rd Quarter, 19th Century Top-shelf 19th century Ferahan Sarouk antique rugs are revered for the great depth and richness of their shimmering palettes, combined with the tremendous grace and elegance of their designs. The dyes of this nearly 150-year-old antique carpet are incredibly saturated and sparkle lavishly, most notably its deep midnight indigo, burnished gold and opulent coral. The radiance of the innovative coral central blossom alights from the wheat hued outer medallion, amply filled with treasured green vinery and petite blossoms. The carpet’s spacious, dignified design leaves room for the eye to rest and the spirit to soar http://www.claremontrug.com/antique-rugs-information/antique-persian-rug-guide/ferahan-ferahan-sarouk-antique-rugs/ferahan-rugs/
Ferahan 6ft 10in x 9ft 9in Circa 1875 Exquisite, entirely original floral motifs command rapt attention in this captivating small room-size carpet, where glowing natural hues, meticulous drawing and extremely fine knotting demonstrate the great dexterity of mature weavers. An adventurous allover design incorporates rhythmic rows of spacious rosettes, their diminutive vinery joining the multitude of crisply rendered flowerheads that fill the reserve with pulsating activity. Be sure to click through to the highest-resolution image to fully experience its extremely vital artistry http://www.claremontrug.com/antique-rugs-information/antique-persian-rug-guide/ferahan-ferahan-sarouk-antique-rugs/ferahan-rugs/
FERAHAN SAROUK, West Central Persian, 7ft 0in x 10ft 8in, Circa 1850. Expressive floral sprays and an exquisitely balanced composition lend tremendous presence to this magnificently artful 150-year-old Ferahan Sarouk. Going far beyond even the traditional refinement found in the best pieces in this style, an effusive assemblage of intricately patterned garlands swirl and radiate throughout a deep indigo field, surrounding a symmetrical medallion with incredible nuance. Time-softened hues and a deep patina of great age further elevate the appeal of this outstanding small room-size carpet. http://www.claremontrug.com/antique-rugs-information/antique-persian-rug-guide/ferahan-ferahan-sarouk-antique-rugs/ferahan-rugs/
FERAHAN, West Central Persian 14ft 1in x 19ft 0in 2nd Quarter, 19th Century At over 160 years old, this exquisite antique Persian Ferahan carpet reveals mature, master-dyed jewel tones glowing with the patina of very significant age. By traditional Oriental rug dimensions its unusually generous width relative to its length makes it superb for a large furniture grouping. Especially noteworthy is the pistachio green of its majestic border and corner pieces, beautifully softening and deepening this compelling art rug’s aesthetic presence. http://www.claremontrug.com/antique-rugs-information/antique-persian-rug-guide/ferahan-ferahan-sarouk-antique-rugs/ferahan-rugs/
FERAHAN SAROUK, West Central Persian 4ft 3in x 6ft 6in Circa 1875 Exceptional balance and consummate craftsmanship elevate this top-drawer Ferahan Sarouk antique rug to impressive aesthetic heights. A glowing butter-toned field, enhanced by subtle, yet continual abrash, creates a sumptuous backdrop for a resplendent deep indigo medallion. Spacious floral vinery drawn in a chiseled manner provides a poised latticework throughout, encompassed by ample borders. The result is a masterwork of Persian rug weaving that offers tremendous grace and awe-inspiring visual depth. http://www.claremontrug.com/antique-rugs-information/antique-persian-rug-guide/ferahan-ferahan-sarouk-antique-rugs/ferahan-rugs/
FERAHAN, West Central Persian 4ft 0in x 6ft 3in Circa 1850 Demonstrating a masterfully eloquent, refreshingly innovative design, this singular, quite early Persian Ferahan antique carpet offers inspiring artistry and a subdued, yet entirely satisfying palette. Deeply enhancing this 19th century area size Oriental rug's intrigue is the asymmetrical positioning of its chiseled allover pattern against its subtly striated buff to beige field. Its softened yet clear colors are only possible when naturally dyes have aged, or matured, over the passage of many generations. http://www.claremontrug.com/antique-rugs-information/antique-persian-rug-guide/ferahan-ferahan-sarouk-antique-rugs/ferahan-rugs/
FERAHAN SAROUK, West Central Persian 3ft 4in x 4ft 10in Circa 1875 An exquisite, inventive, and harmonious palette of natural colors clearly demonstrates the mastery of dyeing techniques achieved by the best artisans of the Second Golden Age of Persian Weaving. A rare mint green blossom is showcased within a luminous watermelon medallion, complemented by an equally entrancing golden apricot in the corner pieces. The remarkable balance and clarity of this Persian floral design greatly enhance the depth and nuance of these seldom encountered hues, as does this area size antique rug’s superb condition at over 130 years of age. http://www.claremontrug.com/antique-rugs-information/antique-persian-rug-guide/ferahan-ferahan-sarouk-antique-rugs/ferahan-rugs/
FERAHAN, West Central Persian 9ft 5in x 18ft 8in 3rd Quarter, 19th Century NEW ARRIVAL! The mesmerizing harmony of this 140-year-old Persian Ferahan carpet is a consummation of carefully drawn motifs within an intricate and delicate design. Its extraordinarily fine weave for an oversize carpet allows for the clear articulation of the lush allover floral pattern, perfectly counterbalanced by a more spacious, larger scale design of the border. A scintillating array of warm earth tones including bronze and seafoam green brilliantly illuminates its unusually elongated expanse. http://www.claremontrug.com/antique-rugs-information/antique-persian-rug-guide/ferahan-ferahan-sarouk-antique-rugs/ferahan-rugs/
FERAHAN SAROUK, West Central Persian 8ft 9in x 12ft 5in Circa 1875 NEW ARRIVAL! The best Ferahan Sarouk carpets of the 19th century possess tremendous clarity and depth in their articulation of design and this innovative carpet is a premier example of those prized sensibilities. Its extremely fine weave allows for the clear revelation of the elegant floral designs such as the delicate scalloped edges and fluid vinery. The symphonic range of time softened hues of apple to spruce green, taupe, camel, French blue and apricot against the atypical antique ivory field exemplifies the mastery of 19th century weavers. http://www.claremontrug.com/antique-rugs-information/antique-persian-rug-guide/ferahan-ferahan-sarouk-antique-rugs/ferahan-rugs/
Ferahan Sarouk 4ft 3in x 6ft 8in Circa 1875 Shimmering with deeply saturated hues, this regal collectible antique rug exemplifies the visual and technical majesty of the revered Ferahan Sarouk style. A stately elliptical medallion occupies the center of the field, and is enriched by extensive floral vinery and wildly creative pendants. The overscale motifs throughout seem to lend themselves to a much larger antique rug, resulting in a grand impact. At over 125 years of age, this sophisticated masterwork remains in rare exceptional condition.http://www.claremontrug.com/antique-rugs-information/antique-persian-rug-guide/ferahan-ferahan-sarouk-antique-rugs/ferahan-rugs/
Ferahan 4ft 0in x 6ft 6in Circa 1850 Of very early provenance, this heartwarming small Persian Ferahan area size antique Oriental rug displays a casual elegance and subtle, atmospheric palette inviting quiet contemplation. Its sophisticated, repeated vase pattern includes evocative hues of coral, teal, khaki and leaf green, dramatizing its rhythmic latticework design. A sublime art-level antique carpet woven in an era that supported great artistic exploration of its weavers, this rare Persian rug comes to us in very good condition http://www.claremontrug.com/antique-rugs-information/antique-persian-rug-guide/ferahan-ferahan-sarouk-antique-rugs/ferahan-rugs/
Ferahan Sarouk 6ft 10in x 10ft 0in Circa 1875 This exquisitely balanced 140-year-old Persian Ferahan Sarouk carpet exemplifies the aesthetic principles of balance and harmony, offering sensuous, organic contours that are seamlessly integrated into a luxurious yet restrained classical design. Its shield-shaped medallion is adorned with scrolling cloudband motifs that reappear in its lushly decorated cornerpieces, while four understated pendants subtly establish compositional balance. http://www.claremontrug.com/antique-rugs-information/antique-persian-rug-guide/ferahan-ferahan-sarouk-antique-rugs/ferahan-rugs/
Ferahan Sarouk 4ft 2in x 6ft 10in Circa 1875 In superb floor condition, this premier Ferahan Sarouk antique carpet offers an entirely unique and inspired cruciform medallion with inset flower petal rosette and subtly asymmetrical, elongated outer contours. Its very old, clear colors include strikingly mature apple green and teal hues, enhanced by the consummately luxurious quality of its luminous wool. Exceptionally harmonious color balance is especially evident in this antique rug's one-of-a-kind sandstone ground, both understated and dynamic in the way it enhances and supports the highlighted botanical design http://www.claremontrug.com/antique-rugs-information/antique-persian-rug-guide/ferahan-ferahan-sarouk-antique-rugs/ferahan-rugs/
Ferahan Sarouk, 6ft 9in x 10ft 2in, Circa 1875. In this consummate quality antique Persian Ferahan Sarouk small room size rug, an unusual palette of apricot, peach and glowing azure provide a gentle backdrop for the powerful drama created by the elongated medallion of the deepest midnight indigo. A stunning addition to our antique carpet gallery, the rare individuality of all of the floral renderings throughout the field, corners and medallion are deeply artful and captivating. It is in outstanding condition with heavier pile overall. All these factors combine to make this distinctive antique Oriental carpet a spectacular house furnishing and superb rug investment. http://www.claremontrug.com/antique-rugs-information/antique-persian-rug-guide/ferahan-ferahan-sarouk-antique-rugs/ferahan-rugs/
Ferahan Sarouk, 8ft 11in x 12ft 2in, 2nd Quarter, 19th Century. Many aspects set apart the antique Oriental rugs in our collection from the thousands our buyers review annually. A central allure is their spectacular, nuanced palettes of exquisitely time-seasoned colors. In this splendid turn of the 20th century Ferahan Sarouk Persian carpet the glorious hues that are set off by a deep indigo backdrop offer many complementary shades, inviting one to linger in fascination. With its non-medallion, yet centralized format, this dramatic art-level antique Oriental carpet would make a profound contribution to the creation of an artful, unforgettable room. It is extremely finely woven and in the heavy-pile condition perfect for daily foot traffic. http://www.claremontrug.com/antique-rugs-information/antique-persian-rug-guide/ferahan-ferahan-sarouk-antique-rugs/ferahan-rugs/
Ferahan Sarouk, 4ft 0in x 6ft 4in, Circa 1875. Exhibiting seemingly chiseled detail work and glowing, richly dyed tones, this superb antique Ferahan Sarouk rug attests to the impressive talent of an especially dexterous Persian rug weaver. Uniquely individualized floral borders and a fluid, intentionally asymmetrical center medallion create a refreshingly creative counterpoint to the great exactitude with which this consummately crafted Oriental rug was woven. Compelling hues of terracotta, deep indigo, rose, carnelian and seldom-encountered leaf green set alight the rug's surface, which has come to us in excellent, heavy-pile condition. http://www.claremontrug.com/antique-rugs-information/antique-persian-rug-guide/ferahan-ferahan-sarouk-antique-rugs/ferahan-rugs/
Ferahan Sarouk, 10ft 8in x 14ft 1in, Circa 1850. The grand medallion of this superb early antique Ferahan Sarouk carpet immediately captures the viewer’s attention. The entire design is highly original, and its color palette, distinguished by terra cotta and apple green tones, glows with the patina of age. Myriad petite blossoms add softness and delicacy that create a deeply compelling contrast to the powerful imagery. http://www.claremontrug.com/antique-rugs-information/antique-persian-rug-guide/ferahan-ferahan-sarouk-antique-rugs/ferahan-rugs/
Ferahan 14ft 1in x 24ft 9in Circa 1875 Unforgettable not only for its massive dimensions, but also its sophisticated, understated palette, this palace-size antique Ferahan carpet holds the top tier in both high decorative and connoisseur categories. With sublime artistry and superlative craftsmanship, it presents the famed Zul-i-Sultan (repeating nightingale and vase) design on the grandest scale we have encountered. Delightful, finely detailed birds strut between every vase with no two quite alike! At nearly one-and-one-half centuries old, it has developed a glowing patina that quietly underscores the splendor of this one-in-the-world 19th century art carpet that likely took a team of nine weavers up to five years to create. (Featured in catalog Vol. 25, No. 1, p. 14-15.) http://www.claremontrug.com/antique-rugs-information/antique-persian-rug-guide/ferahan-ferahan-sarouk-antique-rugs/ferahan-rugs/
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