A Qashqa'i Shekarlu rug, Southwest Persia

Overall measurements: 157cm across the top, 146cm across the bottom, 216cm along left side, 239cm along right side (Irregularly shaped, tilted on right hand side) Lustrous, richly coloured wool, good pile, approx 3-4mm in depth; quite fine weave and flexible handle, oxidised blacks, particularly along outer guard stripes, with some scattered repiling on outermost edges; approximately two dozen minute scattered repairs, probably old moth damage, visible from reverse; vestiges of flatweave at upper end and braid at lower end, ends now blanket stitched, side cords re-overcast with some losses and pin holes on left hand edge; slightly irregularly shaped (see image). 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."

For comparable Persian, Qashqa’i tribal pieces, in both design and border type, see Sotheby’s, London, 27^th April 1994, lot 155 on an indigo ground (357 by 167cm), and Sotheby’s Parke Bernet, New York, 12 December 1979, lot 364, with green guard borders (262 by 193cm).

See Black, David, World Rugs and Carpets, Gazetteer, Persia, Jennifer Scarce, pp.130-155, Fars including Qashqai, pp.148-149, fig.c, for a comparable four tiered comb design, on indigo ground, and including animals, early 20^th century (240 by 150cm).

See lot 65 in this sale for a comparable of this distinctive design, and 64, 66 & 70 for other Qashqa’i pieces.

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.