A fine and unusual antique Persian silk rug
19th century or possibly earlier, featuring elements similar to the renowned 16th/17th century 'Spiral Vine' carpets, the dark red field with various animals including stags, wild dogs and leopards, some in combat with water buffalo, amongst palmettes interconnected by scrolling cloud bands and vines, within a broad outer border of dark red scrolling arabesques on a pale green ground, with alternating palmettes in sage green and light blue, 81 x 70in (205 x 178cm).