Vintage Indian Bakhtiari Design Carpet — 1980s | 3'1" x 5'3"

The Shama features a classic tree-of-life composition, anchored by a single vase from which long-stemmed vines and floral blossoms rise, populated by perched birds throughout—an enduring motif symbolizing life and prosperity. For more on the tree-of-life motif and other recurring symbols, see our guide to common rug motifs.

The pile has a fantastic high luster and rich color saturation, with a silk-like feel that creates striking contrast between the rug's light and dark sides depending on viewing angle. The palette centers on dusty red, navy blue, gold, and antique ivory. Explore more Bakhtiari design pieces in our guide to the best rug styles for collectors.

At 3'1" x 5'3", the Shama suits entryways, bedrooms, or small layered floor moments where its luster and symbolism can be appreciated up close.

The tree-of-life motif, paired here with a central vase and perched birds, is one of the most enduring symbols in Bakhtiari weaving, historically associated with fertility, renewal, and the connection between earth and heaven. While the design originates with the Bakhtiari tribal confederation of Persia's Zagros Mountains, skilled weavers in India have long produced rugs in this tradition, adapting its symbolic vocabulary into their own high-luster, finely finished production.

Woven circa the 1980s, the Shama reflects this Indian interpretation of the Bakhtiari design at a high level of craft. Browse more pieces from this collection in our Bakhtiari collection.

Shama means "lamp" or "candle" in Hindi and other Indian languages, ultimately from the Arabic shamʿ.

The name reflects the rug's luminous quality—a pile with such luster and color saturation that it seems almost to glow, much like its namesake flame.

Shama captures the Bakhtiari design tradition at its most radiant: symbolic, richly colored, and lit from within.

• Primary material: Natural wool
• Construction: Hand-knotted
• Dye method: Traditional dyes, high sheen and luster
• Foundation: Traditional woven foundation
• Condition: Vintage condition, like-new with full original pile height

Like-new condition, with original full pile height maintained evenly across the entire rug.

Original side cord selvages are fully intact. Sides and ends are fully secured.

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 protect the pile's sheen.

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

Is this rug Persian-made?
No. The Shama is a vintage Indian rug woven in a Bakhtiari design, a tradition originating with the Bakhtiari tribal confederation of Persia but produced in India circa the 1980s.

What does the tree-of-life motif mean?
A central vase with rising vines, blossoms, and birds, traditionally symbolizing life, renewal, and prosperity. See our motif guide for more.

Is it ready for use?
Yes. It has been professionally cleaned and is in like-new condition with full original pile height.