Gabbeh Rug - Iran. Mid-20th Century. 285 X 93 Cm

When you see this Gabbeh, it’s hard not to think of Piet Mondrian’s geometric compositions or Paul Klee’s artistic explorations. The parallels are striking: the same approach to juxtaposing rectangles of bold colors, playing with their dimensions and contrasts, to create a composition of remarkable modernity. Two very different worlds, two artistic traditions that, without ever having crossed paths, sometimes seem to speak the same language. A true work of art to be displayed on the floor!

The eye wanders from one color to another, moving from an intense madder red to a deep indigo blue, then to a particularly luminous saffron yellow. Olive and emerald greens, chocolate browns, and darker shades punctuate the composition. The rectangles—sometimes elongated, sometimes nearly square—follow one another in horizontal bands, while certain vertical divisions break up this regularity. All these colors, derived from plant-based dyes, possess remarkable luminosity. There are also beautiful abrash—those natural variations in tone that, in certain places, create movement and lend greater depth to the colored surfaces.

The rug is entirely handmade using traditional weaving and knotting techniques, with wool over wool. Its particularly thick pile reaches a height of a good centimeter. This thickness gives it a plush feel and a highly appreciated level of comfort. This is, in fact, one of the hallmarks of Gabbeh rugs, historically designed to accompany the daily lives of nomadic peoples. A piece that is at once sturdy, warm, and surprisingly contemporary.

Gabbeh Rug – Fars Region, southwestern Iran
Woven and knotted wool-on-wool
Plant-based dyes
Circa 1950–1970
Dimensions: 285 × 93 cm
In perfect condition

Choosing an antique rug or textile is often a serendipitous encounter.
If one of our pieces catches your eye, or if you’d like more information or photos, I’d be happy to discuss it with you.

Laurent Consul
Beauty of Kilims
06 42 61 73 46