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Preliminary identification

Persian Isfahan 'Tree of Life' Pictorial Rug, c. 1950s

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A finely hand-knotted Persian rug featuring the iconic 'Tree of Life' motif emerging from a central vase, framed within a Mihrab (prayer arch).

Story

The 'Gol-o-Bolbol' (Rose and Nightingale) tradition has been the heartbeat of Persian art for centuries, representing the eternal longing of the soul for beauty.

Maker / Origin

While unsigned, the precision of the floral curves suggests it originated from a high-end workshop in Isfahan or Kashan, cities famous for their 'city rugs' which use paper patterns (talim) to achieve near-perfect symmetry.

Condition & Value

The rug appears to be in excellent vintage condition with the fringe intact and no visible 'low spots' or heavy wear. The colors remain vibrant, suggesting it was kept out of direct sunlight. The integrity of the side bindings (selvages) is a key indicator of its well-preserved state.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
  • ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD