Majestic Antique Abedeh Zil E Sultan

This is a beautiful antique Abadeh carpet featuring the renowned Zil-e-Sultan design. Zil-e-Sultan, the eldest son of the Shah of Persia in the mid-19th century, was not in line for the throne and thus created his own royal symbol. That motif — a vase overflowing with flowers, flanked by two birds — is repeated throughout the centre of this piece. The intricate, all-over pattern highlights the exceptional weaving traditions of Abadeh. An ivory-toned main field and border provide the perfect backdrop for the soft greens, pinks, reds, and pale blues found in the floral and bird details.
This is a truly refined and classical antique carpet, preserved in very good original condition. The pile is medium-high, consistent with the traditional Abadeh style where the pile was deliberately kept low to complement the fine weave.  The carpet remains in excellent order, retaining its original fringes and minor borders. Recently professionally cleaned, the natural dyes have revived beautifully, and the carpet is ready for everyday use.
Located on the northeastern edge of the Qashqai tribal region, the town of Abadeh is well known for producing carpets featuring the "Hebatlu" medallion design — a bold pattern with geometric floral motifs in each corner. However, Abadeh rugs possess a distinct character separate from typical Qashqai pieces. They are usually more finely woven, with a wool pile on a cotton foundation, and the pile is clipped relatively low. Abadeh carpets are especially recognized for their ivory borders adorned with green leaves, as seen here, and often display either a central medallion or, as in this case, the celebrated Zil-e-Sultan pattern.