Preliminary identification

Semi-Antique Persian Mir-Saraband Runner

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A classic hand-knotted wool runner featuring the iconic 'Boteh' (seed or flame) motif repeated across a vibrant madder-red field.

Story

The Saraband district in central Iran is the birthplace of this specific 'Mir' design, a name derived from the village of Mal-e-Mir. The repeating pattern isn't just decorative; it represents the 'Boteh,' an ancient symbol of life, fire, or a sprouting seed…

Maker / Origin

While not the work of a single named artist, this rug was crafted by village weavers in the Saraband district.

Condition & Value

The rug shows typical signs of age, including wear to the side selvages and significant loss to the cotton fringe at both ends. There appears to be some slight fading (abrash), which is actually a desirable trait in hand-dyed rugs, though the structural integrity of the field looks solid.

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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