(High-Collectible-Plus) (One of 70 "Best-of-Their-Type Rugs" This startling 'Dragon and Phoenix' composition -- the rarest and most archetypal of Bakshaish compositions -- presents a grand medallion that functions as a window through which a three-dimensional striated blue sky can be viewed. Continuing this allusion, the carpet’s filigree-filled aperture holds highly stylized dragon forms at each corner of an elaborate matrix, symbolizing the Celestial Dragon as the active cosmic force seeking to pair with the phoenix. Connecting these mythic cloudband creatures to the small camelhair centerpiece are lobed white figures, the Bakshaish symbol for the phoenix. A precisely rendered camelhair star medallion is filled with colorful crystal blossoms. Gently contrasting with the powerful energy at the center, colorful floating buds and blossoms encircle it. Puzzle-piece corner spandrels are interlocking variations of the Dragon theme with mocha-hued camelhair reintroduced as a fascinating accent, amplifying this mythological carpet's palpable magic and mystique. This masterpiece’s range of color is marvelous. It looks as if chosen from a painter's palette, enlivening the entire composition with depth and exquisite textures.