Rug 19th-20th century

This impressive carpet at the Minneapolis Institute of Art presents a vibrant scene teeming with symbolic life. Dominating the visual field are various animals and floral motifs, signs rooted deeply in Persian artistic tradition. Notice the mythical creatures interspersed among real animals, a testament to the enduring power of ancient beliefs and cosmological views. The deer motif, for instance, is a powerful emblem of rebirth and renewal, seen across cultures from ancient Greece to China. The symbolism resonates with ancient fertility rituals, a connection lost to modern viewers, yet undeniably present in our collective memory. The motif of a beast locked in combat, recurring across time and space, evokes a primal struggle. From the friezes of Persepolis to medieval tapestries, this imagery taps into a deep-seated fascination with struggle, reflecting the inherent human condition. These symbols are not merely decorative but powerful evocations of human emotions, engaging viewers on a subconscious level. These symbols transcend their original context, resurfacing and taking on new meanings. They are a reminder of our shared cultural past, a cyclical progression that enriches our understanding of the human experience.