Kashan Souf Rugs
Guide to Antique Kashan Souf Rugs
Souf rugs are popular in Iran and little understood elsewhere except by Persians and people who really know fine carpets. Thy have a three dimensionality that does not come across in a picture. Additionally a Souf is art it is not meant to be walked upon. A Souf is a rug that combines flatweave and pile. Typically the ground is done in Flatweave and the design is executed in pile. Metal wrapped thread is often used. Kashan is traditionally the home of Souf rugs but we also see them from Qum. There are also tribal soufs which I believe come from Khorasan.
Examples:
A Kashan silk and Metal-Thread Souf Kashan Prayer Rug Circa 1920 lot 4
Lot Description A SILK AND METAL-THREAD SOUF KASHAN PRAYER RUG
CENTRAL PERSIA, CIRCA 1920
The flatwoven pale blue field with a vase at one end issuing large palmettes and flowering vine with perching birds beneath a mihrab filled with similar motifs, in a salmon-pink flatwoven border of meandering palmette vine between floral minor stripes, full pile and metal-thread throughout, one end has a few knots missing and in need of securing, otherwise in excellent condition.
Kashan Silk and Metal-Thread Souf Rug, Central Persia, circa 1900
6 ft. 9 in. x 4 ft. 4in.
Kashan Mohtashem Souf Prayer Rug, Central Persia, circa 1900
6 ft. 11 in. x 4 ft. 4 in.