Antique Persian Kerman Rug Mat — 1910s | 2' x 2'5"

The Dara's center medallion is a classic oversized starburst, concentric and scaled at its outer contour, sitting atop a field covered in floral blossoms. For more on medallion motifs, see our guide to common rug motifs.

The palette is rich and jewel-toned: navy blue, cochineal red, rose, ivory, antique ivory, and beige. Explore more Kerman pieces in our guide to the best rug styles for collectors.

At 2' x 2'5", the Dara is a small accent piece, ideal in front of a favorite chair, beside a bed, or wherever a touch of century-old color and pattern would be welcome underfoot.

Kerman, in southeastern Persia, is one of the country's most celebrated weaving centers, historically renowned for exceptional design sophistication and fine knotting. Small-format Kerman mats and rugs were often woven as accent pieces, carrying the same design ambition as their larger counterparts at an intimate, personal scale.

Woven circa the 1910s, the Dara is a well-preserved example of this tradition, now well over a century old. Browse more pieces from this tradition in our Kerman collection.

Dara means "wealthy" in Persian, historically linked to Darius the Great and other rulers of ancient Persia.

The name reflects the rug's rich, saturated color and its status as a small but genuine piece of Persian weaving history—modest in size, but rich in age and character.

Dara captures the Kerman tradition in miniature: detailed, colorful, and quietly precious.

• Primary material: Natural wool
• Construction: Hand-knotted
• Dye method: Traditional dyes
• Foundation: Traditional woven foundation
• Condition: Antique condition — see Condition Details

Given its exceptional age, this rug shows wear to foundation and knot heads. Sides and ends are fully secured.

The side cord selvage wrap is a newer addition in a purple shade, replacing the original wrap in a manner consistent with the rest of the carpet.

Recently professionally cleaned and ready for immediate in-home use.

Vacuum gently using suction only. Avoid rotating brushes or beater bars.

Given its age, consider low-traffic placement to preserve the weave.

For deep cleaning, consult a professional experienced with antique Persian carpets.

Is this rug one of a kind?
Yes. Antique Kerman weavings like the Dara are unique in drawing, dye variation, and wear pattern.

What is the purple selvage wrap?
The side cord selvage has been re-wrapped in a purple shade, a newer addition replacing the original wrap. This is a normal, disclosed detail for a rug of this age.

Is it ready for use?
Yes. It has been professionally cleaned and inspected prior to offering.