Vienna Hunting Carpet

Due to its fineness, motifs and size, the famous silk Vienna hunting carpet ranks among the world’s most exceptional carpets. Originating from the court of Shah Tahmasp I (r. 1524–1576), the carpet’s design supposedly lay in the hands of the court painters working for the art-minded ruler. The middle of the balanced pattern forms a medallion with dragons and phoenixes. The corners are marked by quarters of the main medallion. Safavid horsemen and prey in the surrounding fields form into one of the famous imperial hunts. Peris (angel-like beings) are depicted in front of dainty tendrils in the surrounding borders.