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Photo © President and Fellows of Harvard College
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Identification and Creation

Object Number
1943.1790
Title
Kerman Carpet with Cypress Tree Pattern
Classification
Textile Arts
Work Type
rug
Date
19th century
Culture
Islamic
Persistent Link
https://hvrd.art/o/214554

Physical Descriptions

Medium
wool pile on a foundation of cotton warps and wefts
Dimensions
447.04 x 243.84 cm (176 x 96 in.)

Acquisition and Rights

Credit Line
Harvard Art Museums/Arthur M. Sackler Museum, Bequest of Grenville L. Winthrop
Accession Year
1943
Object Number
1943.1790
Division
Asian and Mediterranean Art
Contact
am_asianmediterranean@harvard.edu
Permissions

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Descriptions

Description
In this monumental carpet, butas are organized in not only horizontal but also diagonal rows that create a sense of dynamism despite the rigid format. The tear-drop shaped designs known as butas in Persian were used widely throughout the Islamic world. Here, they closely resemble cypress trees. This carpet was probably made in the city of Kirman, located in southern Iran. Famous for a storied history of weaving, Kirman was also well-known for its production of thick, lush wool used to make rugs, shawls, and other textiles for export. Many of these textiles, such as the shawls, featured buta and helped make the motif popular worldwide.

Verification Level

This record was created from historic documentation and may not have been reviewed by a curator; it may be inaccurate or incomplete. Our records are frequently revised and enhanced. For more information please contact the Division of Asian and Mediterranean Art at am_asianmediterranean@harvard.edu