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Vintage Persian Block Print (Kalamkari) Textile
About the Item
This exquisite Kalamkar (also known as Qalamkar or Ghalamkar) woodblock-printed textile from Isfahan, Iran, is a masterwork of precision, symbolism, and artistic heritage. Created entirely by hand in the early 20th century, it features a stunningly intricate “Tree of Life” design—a timeless motif representing longevity, growth, and the connection between earth and heaven.
At the heart of the composition is a gracefully rendered cypress tree, long regarded in Persian culture as a symbol of eternal life. Delicate birds are interwoven throughout the design, adding a sense of movement and harmony, while the upper spandrels glow in a rich, verdant green—imbuing the piece with visual depth and serenity.
Each detail in this textile was applied using individual woodblocks—carved with unique motifs, dipped in natural dyes, and carefully pressed by hand onto the fabric. Once the full composition was complete, it was permanently fixed with the heat of a hot iron—ensuring that every color and contour would endure through time.
The name “Kalamkar” derives from the Persian words qalam (pen) and kari (craftsmanship), a nod to the origins of this ancient art form, which began with hand-drawn designs before evolving into the intricate block printing tradition of the 19th and 20th centuries.
A remarkable fusion of artistic mastery and cultural meaning, this textile is not only a decorative treasure but also a testament to the enduring legacy of Persian craftsmanship.
Dimensions: 74” x 106″
Date of Manufacture: Early 1900s
Place of Origin: Isfahan, Persia
Material: Cotton with hand-painted block prints with natural dyes
Condition: Excellent
The Persian Knot Gallery, SKU 2048
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- Dimensions:Height: 106 in (269.24 cm)Width: 74 in (187.96 cm)Depth: 0.1 in (2.54 mm)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:1920-1929
- Condition:
- Seller Location:Barrington, IL
- Reference Number:Seller: The Persian Knot, SKU 20481stDibs: LU8224239175502
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