A Silk Kashan 'Mohtasham' style Carpet, Central Persia

Purchased Collection of Abdi Roubeni, Christie's, London, 7th October 2010, lot 20

Pile from 3-4mm and down to foundation in areas. The areas of light green have oxidised down to the foundation, in the ground and the border, especially in the lower half of the carpet. There are areas of the light beige ground in the lower section of the carpet in the ogival medallion that are worn down to the foundation. The pile of the border is generally even overall, with small areas of green oxidised, especially to the inner border of the lower end. The lower section of the carpet, and the green coloured sides of the main medallion are with the lowest pile. There is a strip across the lower end of lower pile, which effects the green and cream areas. There are some areas of minor colour run in areas, for example around the petals of salmon pink flowers in the lower right corner spandrel. There is a small section of repair, approx 4.5cm long, in the lower right corner, visible on close inspection, as different colours used. Overlocked ends, with silk fringes. Overcast sides with burgundy silk. Unusual colouring. Carpet best viewed down the nap. EMBARGO ON IMPORTATION OF PERSIAN/IRANIAN WORKS OF ART TO THE USA. Due to recent changes in the U.S. law, carpets and rugs of Iranian/Persian origin can no longer be imported into the U.S. Please check with the sale administrator if you are uncertain as to whether a lot is subject to these or any other restrictions or if you need assistance with such enquiries.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Abdi Roubeni's  single owner auction of his collection was held in London in 2010. This carpet was one of a core group purchased by Abdi Roubeni in the late 1960’s, which were considered to have been in the Collection of His Highness Bhupinder Singh, Maharaja of Patiala (1892-1938).  Known as one of the richest men in the world, Bhupinder Singh, (the proud owner of the world famous 'Patiala Necklace' manufactured by Cartier), commissioned several palaces, for which carpets were purchased. They were possibly obtained from Haji Aga Eliasoff (Abdi Roubeni’s uncle who had moved to India and sold carpets to many of the Maharajas, ambassadors, and international businessmen).  As no records survived to confirm this provenance for certain. 

See Dwivedi, Sharada, The Maharaja & the Princely States of India, Roli & Janssen Bv, 2007, for information about the Mahajaras of the Punjab states including Patiala and Maharaja Bhupinder Singh, pp.112-121

EMBARGO ON IMPORTATION OF PERSIAN/IRANIAN WORKS OF ART TO THE USA.
Due to recent changes in the U.S. law, carpets and rugs of Iranian/Persian origin can no longer be imported into the U.S.

Please check with the sale administrator if you are uncertain as to whether a lot is subject to these or any other restrictions or if you need assistance with such enquiries.