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The Navid
★★★★★ 4.9 STAR SELLER RATING
An heirloom rug from the Mahal collection
Vintage Persian Mahal Carpet — 1950s | 7'10" × 10'7"
The Vintage Persian Mahal Carpet is a mid-20th century hand-knotted wool carpet distinguished by an allover Herati lattice and bold Samovar-style border. Woven in Persia circa the 1950s, this Mahal reflects the balanced drawing, saturated brick red ground, and enduring decorative versatility that define the Arak weaving tradition.
- Origin: Mahal (Arak region), Persia
- Age: Vintage, circa 1950s
- Type: Carpet
- Construction: Hand-knotted (Persian asymmetrical knot)
- Pile: Natural wool
- Use: Indoor
- Size: 7'10" × 10'7"
Each rug is handcrafted and unique. Variations in abrash, oxidation, dye saturation, restoration, and weave density are natural characteristics of vintage handmade carpets and reflect authenticity rather than imperfection.
Description
This vintage Mahal carpet presents a fully covered Herati field—interconnected diamond latticework enclosing floral rosettes and stylized botanical elements. The brick red ground is layered with powder blue, sky blue, navy, jade green, platinum, saffron yellow, and dusty mallard tones, creating dimensional movement across the surface.
The main border features a simplified Samovar cross-section motif articulated with interior blossom elements, providing strong architectural framing against the richly patterned field. The overall composition is balanced and livable—hallmarks of mid-century Mahal production.
With its versatile 8' × 10' scale, this carpet anchors living rooms, dining rooms, and layered interiors with warmth, historic texture, and enduring Persian craftsmanship.
History
Mahal carpets originate from the Arak region of central Persia and are known for their adaptable scale, balanced drawing, and decorative versatility. By the mid-20th century, Mahal weavings maintained the traditional Herati lattice while evolving into softer, livable palettes suited for both Western and domestic Persian interiors.
Unlike tightly rendered workshop carpets, Mahal rugs often display a slightly more open, relaxed drawing—giving them warmth and approachability while preserving structural durability and classical Persian pattern vocabulary.
About the Name
Navid is a Persian name meaning “good news” or “promise.”
The name reflects the carpet’s balanced composition and optimistic palette—warm brick red softened by cool blues and botanical accents.
Navid honors the enduring design language of the Arak weaving tradition, where classical Persian motifs continue to bring harmony and structure into the home.
Materials & Composition
- Primary material: Natural wool
- Construction: Hand-knotted (Persian asymmetrical knot)
- Dye method: Traditional dyes with visible oxidation and abrash
- Foundation: Traditional woven foundation
- Condition: Vintage condition with areas of wear, repair, patching, and localized fade
Condition Details
Wear consistent with age, showing areas of reduced pile with knot heads and foundation visible.
Multiple repairs are present in varying levels of expertise. Two patches measure approximately 2" × 3", with additional smaller patchwork areas approximately 2" × 2".
Localized fading and oxidation appear primarily in the central field, along with a few isolated areas of older staining. Most original side cord selvages are intact or have been restored. Sides and ends are fully secured.
Recently professionally cleaned and ready for in-home use.
Care Instructions
Vacuum gently using suction only. Avoid rotating brushes or beater bars.
Use a high-quality rug pad to reduce movement and provide structural support.
Rotate periodically for even wear. For deep cleaning or future restoration, consult a professional experienced with vintage Persian carpets.
FAQ
Is this carpet one of a kind?
Yes. Each vintage Persian Mahal carpet is unique in drawing, dye variation, and restoration history.
Are the repairs stable?
Yes. Repairs and patching have been secured, and the sides and ends are fully reinforced.
Is it ready for use?
Yes. It has been professionally cleaned and inspected prior to offering.
Shipping & Delivery
The Leonidas Collection is proud to offer carbon neutral shipping on most heirloom rug purchases.
- Shipping is calculated at checkout and includes handling and insurance.
- Select rugs ship free within the continental U.S.
- Oversized items ship via freight carrier (curbside delivery).
- Shipping fees are non-refundable.
- Damage or delivery issues must be reported within 48 hours.
Return Policy
- Heirloom rugs (including vintage & antique) are returnable within 3 days of delivery, unless otherwise noted.
- Heirloom rugs purchased on sale or with a discount are final sale.
- Contemporary rugs are returnable within 14 days of delivery, unless otherwise noted.
- Return authorization is required.
Please review the full details of our Return & Refund Policy for more information.
We encourage customers to contact us at hello@leonidascollection.com with any questions prior to purchase to ensure confidence in your selection.
Reviews
★★★★★ 4.9 STAR SELLER RATING
"Worth every penny! This is the kind of purchase you never regret." - Selena W.
ORIGIN STORY
The Mahal Collection
Navid is
★★★★★
Worth every penny!
This is the kind of purchase you never regret.
— SELENA W. —
★★★★★
The only place you should be buying antiques from.
These folks are always willing to go the extra mile to help you find what you're looking for.
— JACK P. —
★★★★★
Collector-approved.
Beautifully curated. As a long-time collector, I can say their pricing is very fair.
— PIETRO G. —
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Frequently asked questions
Are your heirloom rugs one-of-a-kind?
Yes. Every heirloom rug we sell is one of a kind. The piece shown is the exact rug you will receive, and it cannot be replaced once sold. Learn more about what makes our rugs heirlooms →
Are your rugs hand-knotted?
Yes. All heirloom, antique, and vintage rugs in our collection are traditionally hand-knotted, not machine-made.
Are your heirloom rugs authentic?
Yes. All heirloom rugs in our collection are genuine vintage or antique pieces—not reproductions. Each is traditionally hand-knotted and sourced from a historically recognized weaving region, with age, origin, and construction verified before listing.
What's the difference between vintage & antique rugs?
Antique rugs are typically over 100 years old, while vintage rugs generally date from the 20th century. Both are traditionally hand-knotted and regionally authentic; the difference lies primarily in age, not quality or craftsmanship.
Are antique and vintage rugs suitable for modern homes?
Most vintage rugs are well-suited for daily living. Antique rugs can also be used with care, depending on age and condition. We note any important considerations on each listing. Learn more about why buying vintage & antique matters →