The Most Expensive Persian Carpet Ever Sold

The Clark Sickle-Leaf Carpet: A Staggering Price Tag

The crown jewel of expensive Persian carpets belongs to the Clark Sickle-Leaf Carpet. This 17th-century masterpiece went under the hammer at a Sotheby’s auction in 2013, fetching a jaw-dropping $33.7 million. Initially estimated at around $10 million, the carpet sparked a fierce bidding war, ultimately exceeding expectations by a staggering three times.

What Makes it So Special?

Several factors contributed to the Clark Sickle-Leaf Carpet’s astronomical price tag:

Age and Rarity: Dating back to the 17th century, the carpet represents a bygone era of exceptional Persian rug craftsmanship. Its rarity, being one of a kind, further amplified its value.

Exquisite Design: The carpet features a captivating “sickle-leaf” pattern, a unique design element not commonly found in rugs of this period. Vibrant jewel tones and intricate floral motifs showcase the unparalleled skill of the weavers.

Historical Significance: The carpet’s strong links to Islamic history likely played a role in its allure, especially for potential buyers from the Middle East, where the carpet eventually landed.

Beyond the Clark Sickle-Leaf: A World of Opulent Rugs

While the Clark Sickle-Leaf holds the record, it’s not the only exorbitantly priced Persian carpet. Other notable examples include:

The Early Persian “Comtesse de Behague” Vase Carpet: This 17th-century beauty sold for nearly $10 million, showcasing the enduring value of these vintage masterpieces.

The Vanderbilt Mughal Millefleurs Star-Lattice Carpet: This intricately detailed carpet features a captivating “millefleurs” design (meaning “thousand flowers”) and fetched a high price at auction.

The Value of Persian Carpets: More Than Just Money

The high prices of these carpets reflect not just their rarity and craftsmanship, but also the cultural and artistic significance they hold. They represent a legacy of artistic expression passed down through generations, a testament to the enduring beauty and value of Persian carpets.