BAKSHAISH "DRAGON AND PHOENIX"
Northwest Persian Antique Carpet

(High-Collectible +) ("One of “60 Best-of-Their-Type Rugs Sold in 2023") The Dragon and Phoenix symbol and meaning have endured for millennia, originally appearing in East Asia, most likely China, and traveling west along the silk route. These symbols were considered extremely auspicious by royalty, artists, and common people alike. Rug scholars remain uncertain as to why the Bakshaish weavers embraced this symbolism so strongly, but it most likely stems from the enduring power of totemic motifs found throughout tribal weavings. Displaying tremendous artistic magnitude and with great significance as a collector's piece, the unadorned negative space of the midnight indigo reserve enhances the twelve Dragon and Phoenix motifs, as well as the diminutive stepped diamond centerpiece based in undyed camelhair. The coral stepped outlining, including appendages that look like arms or legs, give the appearance of a scarab or other mythic creature. This elongated medallion rests upon an ivory ground replete with a plethora of finely rendered flora, while the sapphire cornerpieces, also displaying Dragon and Phoenix motifs, enclose the field.

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