4.7 x 7.7 Fine Antique Halvai Bidjar Rug, Northwest Persia, Circa 1890

The term “Halvai” is sometimes applied to very finely woven Bidjar rugs. Whether this was a specific village or the term has another meaning I am uncertain.

The red field is decorated with the classical Herati design around a navy blue, eight point medallion with Anchor pendants. The corner spandrels are beautifully articulated. A noteworthy feature, often seen in the best Bidjar rugs, is the plain color band in this case a wonderful shade of green, that divides the field from the borders. The major border is a spectacular sky blue decorated with the Turtle design.