Important Notice

ISFAHAN, IRAN, CIRCA 1930
Handspun and handwoven cotton, block printed and painted, natural dyes
17.5 x 26.5 in (45 x 68 cm)


The central motif in this door curtain or pardeh, is a Cypress tree framed within a mihrab. Rising from a rocky mound in the lower register, the tree is flanked on either side by a tiger and a peacock. The two vertical borders, on either side, have smaller trees with birds in the upper branches. The body of the curtain is filled with large red blossoms scrolling on a vine with small buds and stylised leaves.

In Iran the Cypress is considered sacred, and often used in 'Tree of Life' representations. According to pre-Islamic Zoroastrian traditions it is recorded that Zoroaster brought the first sapling of a Cypress from paradise.

The 'Tree of Life' motif is prevalent across cultures, and as a universal symbol signifying wisdom, protection, and prosperity. Cutting across the three worlds it is often perceived as the 'Cosmic Tree,' connecting the heavens to the earth and the underworld. Standing straight and tall, the trunk is the means of ascending upwards towards heaven through the outstretched branches or downwards where the roots plunge deep into the netherworld. Its significance transcends conscious reality, retaining a link with our primeval memory.

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