#rasht embroidery

Rasht Embroidery.
North Persia, Gilan Province, Ca. 1900.
Auction - Rippon Boswell & Co.

This large decorative hanging was made in Rasht, the capital of the North Persian province of Gilan, whose ornate embroideries were highly renowned throughout Persia and beyond. As usual, the foundation is a wool felt mosaic composed of sections in different colours which coordinate with the design. The red field terminating in an arch shape at the top is dominated by a huge cypress flanked by swirling vines and floral stems. The stems lie on an azure ground along the sides and at the upper end. Two lion masks and several splendid birds have been incorporated into the design.(с)