Vintage Persian Lilihan Rug — 1930s | 3'4" x 6'2"

The Delshad's field is covered in sprawling floral arabesques, their contouring reminiscent of the dragon-stylized renderings found in much older Safavid-era carpets, interwoven with blossoms and germinating plants throughout. For more on arabesque and botanical motifs, see our guide to common rug motifs.

The field is wrapped by meandering vine inner and outer minor borders, framed by a geometric germinating plant main border. The palette is warm and earthy: dusty ruby red grapefruit, dusty blush, dusty teal, rust, chestnut, and pale coffee brown. Explore more Lilihan pieces in our guide to the best rug styles for collectors.

At 3'4" x 6'2", the Delshad suits entryways, bedrooms, or layered floor moments where its historically resonant motifs and warm palette can be appreciated up close.

Lilihan is a weaving region in west-central Persia, historically producing rugs valued for their floral density and rich, saturated color, often woven on a cotton foundation for added structural stability. The dragon-motif contouring found in the Delshad's arabesques nods to a much older lineage of Persian and Caucasian "dragon carpets," an archaic decorative tradition whose forms persisted in more abstracted ways in later weaving.

Woven circa the 1930s, the Delshad reflects this Lilihan tradition, layering historical motif references into a warmly composed field. Browse more pieces from this tradition in our Lilihan collection.

Delshad means "happy heart, cheerful" in Persian, from del meaning "heart" and shād meaning "happy."

The name reflects the rug's warm, joyful color palette and its sprawling, generous floral field—an arrangement that feels alive and unguarded rather than formally restrained.

Delshad captures the Lilihan tradition at its most warm-spirited: dense, richly colored, and full of life.

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

Even wear is present across the surface to knot heads, with faint foundation showing through consistent with age.

Most original side cord selvages are intact or have been sympathetically restored. Sides and ends are fully secured.

This rug has multiple areas of professional repair, consistent with a well-loved piece of this age.

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

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

Use a quality rug pad to reduce movement and provide support.

Rotate periodically to encourage even wear. For deep cleaning, consult a professional experienced with vintage Persian carpets.

Is this rug one of a kind?
Yes. Vintage Lilihan weavings like the Delshad are unique in drawing, dye variation, and wear pattern.

Has this rug been repaired?
Yes, it has multiple areas of professional repair, consistent with a well-loved piece of this age. It is fully secured and ready for use.

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