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The cypress motif is one of the most ancient and enduring symbols found in tribal rugs. It is a motif that has travelled through generations of weavers, carried not through written instruction, but through memory and tradition. The Serv appears as early as the reliefs of Persepolis, dating back to around 500 BC, and continues through Persian literature such as the Shahnameh of Ferdowsi, as well as earlier Zoroastrian texts.
In Persian literature dating back over a thousand years, particularly in the Shahnameh of Ferdowsi, there is a reference to Zoroaster bringing two cypress trees from heaven. One of these was planted in the city of Kashmar in northeast Iran, where he began his invitation to Zoroastrian belief. According to the story, the tree grew into a magnificent symbol, later associated with a fire temple. Centuries afterwards, during the Abbasid period, it is said that the caliph ordered the tree to be cut and brought to Baghdad.
Stories like these remain in cultural memory and gradually find their way into visual expression. Motifs such as the cypress become more than decorative elements; they become carriers of memory, belief, and identity.
This rug is a fine example of that tradition. Woven by Lori Bakhtiari, nomads of Central Iran, it presents a beautifully stylised cypress tree, surrounded by complementary ornamental elements. The composition is balanced and confident, enhanced by a rich and harmonious colour palette.
Dating to the early 20th century, this piece combines excellent quality wool, natural dyes, and a refined sense of design. It remains in very good condition and stands as a strong example of how ancient symbolism continues to live through tribal weaving traditions.
The cypress motif is one of the most ancient and enduring symbols found in tribal rugs. It is a motif that has travelled through generations of weavers, carried not through written instruction, but through memory and tradition. The Serv appears as early as the reliefs of Persepolis, dating back to around 500 BC, and continues through Persian literature such as the Shahnameh of Ferdowsi, as well as earlier Zoroastrian texts.
In Persian literature dating back over a thousand years, particularly in the Shahnameh of Ferdowsi, there is a reference to Zoroaster bringing two cypress trees from heaven. One of these was planted in the city of Kashmar in northeast Iran, where he began his invitation to Zoroastrian belief. According to the story, the tree grew into a magnificent symbol, later associated with a fire temple. Centuries afterwards, during the Abbasid period, it is said that the caliph ordered the tree to be cut and brought to Baghdad.
Stories like these remain in cultural memory and gradually find their way into visual expression. Motifs such as the cypress become more than decorative elements; they become carriers of memory, belief, and identity.
This rug is a fine example of that tradition. Woven by Lori Bakhtiari, nomads of Central Iran, it presents a beautifully stylised cypress tree, surrounded by complementary ornamental elements. The composition is balanced and confident, enhanced by a rich and harmonious colour palette.
Dating to the early 20th century, this piece combines excellent quality wool, natural dyes, and a refined sense of design. It remains in very good condition and stands as a strong example of how ancient symbolism continues to live through tribal weaving traditions.