Vintage Persian Mahal Rug with Diamond Lattice Design

1940s Hand-knotted Persian Carpet with Distressed Patina

The Vintage Persian Mahal Rug with Diamond Lattice Design stands as a magnificent example of mid-20th-century Persian weaving—where geometry and artistry meet in a symphony of balance, texture, and time-softened beauty. Hand-knotted in the Mahal region of Persia during the 1940s, this large-scale 10.5x13.5-foot rug tells the story of artisanal precision and natural elegance, preserved in wool and aged to perfection.

The field is a mesmerizing lattice of interlocking diamond panels, each outlined with fine detailing and filled with henna plant palmettes and stylized blossoms. The arrangement creates a rhythmic, mosaic-like effect—every diamond distinct, yet seamlessly woven into a larger pattern that moves across the surface like a whisper of repetition. Around the perimeter, a lotus and vine main border gently scrolls, framing the composition in organic symmetry and reinforcing the timeless grace of Persian design.

Its color palette exudes quiet depth and maturity. Shades of charcoal and royal blue undertone merge into a soft field that is illuminated by accents of terracotta, cherry red, sage green, and powder blue. The contrast of dark and light tones—tempered by natural abrash (subtle variations in dye)—creates an atmospheric warmth that feels both grounding and elegant. The result is a rug that feels as if it has absorbed a century of light and life, with the kind of patina only time can produce.

This Vintage Persian Mahal Rug with Diamond Lattice Design has aged beautifully, showing even wear across the pile with some areas of exposed foundation and minor restoration—a hallmark of authenticity and lived history. Its sides and ends are fully secured and professionally restored, ensuring it remains as durable as it is distinguished. Recently cleaned and conditioned, it is ready for many more decades of in-home enjoyment.

Stylistically, this rug is endlessly versatile. In an Industrial interior, its earthy tones and strong geometry bring grounded character beneath leather chairs, raw wood tables, or wrought-iron accents. In a Vintage Glamour setting, its lattice symmetry pairs beautifully with antique brass, velvet upholstery, and muted light. It anchors any room not just as a decorative element, but as a historical centerpiece—whispering stories of Persian artistry and mid-century heritage.

There is a sensory poetry to this vintage rug. The faint texture of knot heads under the hand, the muted shimmer of aged wool catching the light, the subtle scent of natural fibers—all combine to create an atmosphere of authenticity and warmth. The Vintage Persian Mahal Rug with Diamond Lattice Design is more than a furnishing; it is a woven chronicle of patience, craft, and beauty meant to be lived with and loved anew.

Design Features

• Traditional Persian Mahal allover lattice design

• Repeating diamond panels filled with palmettes and floral medallions

• Lotus blossom and meandering vine border

• Hand-knotted Persian wool pile on cotton foundation

• Naturally distressed texture showcasing vintage character

Color Palette

• Charcoal field with subtle royal blue undertones

• Terracotta, cherry red, and powder blue accents

• Sage green and ivory highlights

• Warm, time-faded patina with gentle abrash variation

Condition Notes

• Even wear across to knot heads with small foundation areas showing

• Minor isolated areas of restoration

• Fully secured sides and ends with intact or restored selvages

• Recently professionally cleaned and stabilized

Origin & Construction

• Origin: Persia (modern-day Iran)

• Region: Mahal

• Date: Circa 1940s

• Material: 100% wool pile on cotton foundation

• Knot Density: Medium to coarse tribal weave

• Technique: Traditional Persian hand-knotting

• Pile Height: Low, even distressed surface

Dimensions

• Size: 10'4" x 13'7" (approx. 10.5' x 13.5')

• Shape: Rectangular