Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum to Host Exhibition on Safavid-Era Masterpieces

The Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum will unveil the exhibition Azerbaijani Carpet Splendour: Safavid Treasures in Antique Weaving on December 24.

This unique showcase will feature 14 exquisite carpets and artistic embroidery samples from the 17th-18th centuries, along with a rare 16th-century miniature illustration of the Shahnameh, all from the private collection of U.S. collector Amir Oskouei, The Caspian Post reports, citing AZERTAC.

Highlighting the display are renowned palace carpets adorned with Afshan, Goja, and Khatai (Dragon) compositions.

The art of carpet weaving flourished during the Safavid era, with Azerbaijan emerging as a major hub of production. Carpet centers in Shirvan, Karabakh, Baku, and Guba expanded their craft, incorporating intricate designs inspired by Tabriz motifs, such as islimi, khatai, bulud, ajdaha, simurg, and the tree of life.

The exhibition also highlights artistic embroidery, a decorative art form that gained prominence in Safavid palace workshops during the 16th century. These intricate works influenced embroidery designs in Azerbaijan's weaving centers during the 17th-18th centuries, serving as table covers, wall decorations, and ceremonial accessories.

Azerbaijani carpets, celebrated worldwide for their exceptional quality and artistry, were prized possessions among Western nobles, who adorned their palaces, mansions, and religious sites with these masterpieces. Today, these treasures, preserved in leading museums and private collections, continue to captivate global audiences.

Jointly organized by the Ministry of Culture of Azerbaijan, the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum, Amir Textiles & Rugs LTD, the United States-Azerbaijan Chamber of Commerce, and Silk Way West Airlines, the exhibition is open to visitors until May 10, 2025.