Anhalt rug, mid-16th century, Iran
A large medallion rug on a golden yellow base, known by its former owner’s name as the Anhalt rug, was woven in Persia in the mid-sixteenth century. Multicolored peacocks, with designs accented by spirals of vines and stylized flowers, link the design of the piece to the Islamic concept of Paradise. The rug is remarkable for its condition and color, unusual among surviving examples of the period.