A signed Saber Mashad carpet, Persia. A masterfully drawn and extremely detailed sixteen pointed medallion design on a blue field with hanging oil lamps and linked branches, foliage and arabesques surrounded by a wide cartouche main border. Characteristic zig-zag pile outer minor border completed with a 5 cm wide pink silk flatweave edge. A magnificent work by the master designer Abas Ali Saber. Mid-20th century. 521×344 cm.
Mashad is a city in Iran in the province of Khorassan that has a rug-making history that goes back many centuries. The province is known for producing some of the finest area rugs in the world. Among the very best designers in Mashad is master designer Master Abas Ali Saber, also known as Saber of Mashad.
Saber began his workshop in Mashad over 70 years ago. His workshop was large, and he had several looms in the suburbs of Mashad, too. At one time, Master Saber had around 60 rug weaving looms throughout the city. After the death of Saber, Master Ahmad Bazmi took over management of the workshop, as per an agreement with Saber’s heirs.
The fine and intricate Persian rugs by Saber are known for their luxurious look and feel. These spectacular high end luxurious rugs feature both medallion designs as well as all-over patterns. They are characterized by a tight weave and high knot count. This allows the details of the design to stand out. Vines and florals against a beige or neutral background are popular designs in works by the artist.
Condition report available on request