Ziegler Mahal Rug

In the late 1870s, a new style of Mahal antique carpet was developed as a result of venture capital money invested by Ziegler & Co. of Manchester, England, which subsidized one-of-a-kind commissioned Persian rugs particularly for export to England and France. This resulted in the noted “Ziegler Sultanabad” style. Distinguished by a significantly finer weave and thinner fabric, and stylish, allover patterns in delicate color, Zieglers met with great success in Europe, immediately recognized by the more decoratively inclined Western markets. Although based on classical Persian carpet patterns, Zieglers offer delightfully inspired English translations, often to impressive overscale proportions.

Zieglers are beloved among many fine interior designers and art lovers for their marriage of casual motifs and superlative craftsmanship. Yet, another school among connoisseurs clearly prefers the more loosely woven, heavier piled “village” Mahals for their abundant creativity and folkloric charm. They appreciate their highly abstracted, naive renditions of both tribal motifs and traditional Persian Court and Garden designs.