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Identification and Creation

Object Number
1930.209
Title
Prayer Rug (Kashan Saruk)
Classification
Textile Arts
Work Type
rug
Date
c. 1900
Places
Creation Place: Middle East, Iran
Culture
Persian
Persistent Link
https://hvrd.art/o/216835

Physical Descriptions

Medium
wool pile on a foundation of cotton warps and wefts
Dimensions
263 × 178 cm (103 9/16 × 70 1/16 in.)

Acquisition and Rights

Credit Line
Harvard Art Museums/Arthur M. Sackler Museum, Bequest of Nettie G. Naumburg
Accession Year
1930
Object Number
1930.209
Division
Asian and Mediterranean Art
Contact
am_asianmediterranean@harvard.edu
Permissions

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Descriptions

Description
This wool pile carpet combines two common rug compositions found in a number of different cultures: the niche or arched opening and the central “tree of life.” Here, the niche is quite abstracted and does not necessarily indicate use as a prayer carpet, and the “tree of life” takes the form of a willow. Other plants are recognizable, like the pear trees that bloom heavy with fruit. Nestled amidst the branches are baby birds and pairs of animals, birds, and insects. At the base of the tree sit two lions, rendered in vivid detail—claws sharp and teeth bared.

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