1920s Antique Persian Malayer Rug Runner

A Persian Masterpiece Woven with Tales of the Hunt

The 1920s Antique Persian Malayer Rug Runner is a living story—a woven narrative of artistry, myth, and movement from the golden age of Persian craftsmanship. Hand-knotted in the village of Malayer, Persia, this runner stands as a remarkable example of pictorial weaving, where pattern meets storytelling and color becomes language.

At first glance, the eye is drawn to the single column of interconnected medallions, each defined by bold, serrated contours that pulse with rhythmic energy. Within these medallions, miniature scenes unfold: birds in flight, mounted riders, and hunting imagery depicting cheetahs and deer—ancient Persian symbols of nobility, pursuit, and grace. Every detail carries intention, the weaver’s hand guiding the wool into a timeless tapestry of nature and legend.

The color palette is a feast for the senses. Deep, dusty teal merges with madder root red, brick, and powder blue, while highlights of ochre gold, ivory, and faded fuchsia lend warmth and luminosity. The variations in tone—known as abrash—tell their own story, revealing natural hand-dyeing methods and the passage of time across its nearly century-old surface.

A meandering vine border encircles the central field, its delicate serpentine motifs symbolic of protection and eternal life. The outer serpent-finished guard border completes the composition, framing the central design in strength and motion. Its hand-knotted wool pile remains resilient yet soft, with areas of pile and exposed knot heads adding to its authentic vintage character.

This Antique Persian Malayer Rug Runner—measuring 3’6” x 16’2”—is perfectly suited for a grand entryway, gallery, or heritage hallway. Its spirited geometry and narrative scenes make it a conversation piece that bridges artistry and storytelling. In Vintage Boho interiors, it brings grounded sophistication, complementing weathered wood, aged leather, and iron accents. The contrast of teal and terracotta tones imbues spaces with a rustic yet refined warmth, evoking the heritage of nomadic Persian design.

Professionally cleaned and preserved, this one-of-a-kind antique rug offers more than beauty—it carries the soul of an era. Each knot, color fade, and motif is a whisper from the 1920s, when Persian weavers imbued every thread with symbolism and care. Today, it endures as both an heirloom and a statement of enduring style.

Design Features

• Single column of interconnected medallions with serrated contours

• Pictorial motifs featuring riders, birds, cheetahs, and deer

• Germinating seed arrow and meandering vine motifs symbolizing renewal

• Serpent-finished border for balance and protection symbolism

Color Palette

• Dark dusty teal, copper, madder red, brick, and powder blue

• Ivory, sand, ochre gold, blush, pale fuchsia, and tangerine

• Natural abrash variations enhancing vintage authenticity

Condition Notes

• Circa 1920s, hand-knotted in Persia (Malayer region)

• Areas of exposed knot heads consistent with vintage age

• Original selvages intact or skillfully restored

• Fully secured sides and ends; professionally cleaned and ready for use

Origin & Construction

• Region: Malayer, Persia

• Period: Circa 1920s

• Material: 100% handspun wool

• Technique: Traditional hand-knotting using vegetable dyes

Dimensions

• Size: 3'6" x 16'2" (approx. 107 cm x 493 cm)

• Ideal for hallways, long living spaces, or gallery-style entryways