Top 7 Most Expensive Carpets In The World

Carpets are a versatile and integral part of interior design and home decor. They not only add warmth and comfort to a room but also serve as a canvas for various styles and aesthetics. They also have other practical purposes, such as insulation and protection from cold floors.

However, in a world of luxury and opulence, some carpets are meticulously handcrafted over months or even years, using rare and precious materials. These carpets aren't merely functional floor coverings but are treasured works of art that have been passed down through generations or acquired by collectors willing to invest substantial sums in acquiring these pieces of history and culture.

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Here we would like to share with you the top 7 most expensive carpets in the world.

7. Rothschild Tabriz Medallion Carpet ($2.4 Million)

The Rothschild Tabriz Medallion Carpet is believed to have been woven in the city of Tabriz, located in northwestern Iran. Tabriz has a rich history of carpet weaving and is known for producing some of the finest Persian rugs.

The carpet has a rather unique history behind it as this 17th-century carpet was stolen from the Austrian Rothschild family during World War II. However, the carpet was then safely returned to its original owner in 1999.

The carpet is estimated to be worth $2.4 million and is now being kept safe at the Muzeum of Islamic Art in Qatar.

6. Louis XV Savonnerie Carpet ($4.4 Million)

Credit: Christie's

The Louis XV Savonnerie carpet was crafted in the 18th century in the renowned Savonnerie Manufactory, a royal carpet and tapestry workshop established in the Palace of Savonnerie, France. This era marked the height of the Rococo style, characterized by its ornate and elaborate designs.

Originally created in 1735 by the renowned Savonnerie artist Pierre-Josse Perrot, this stunning carpet, one of a trio featuring the same royal design, was initially intended for Louis XV's dining room at Chateau La Muette.

Thanks to its lively artistic style, this carpet fetched a price of $4.4 million at the Christie's auction in 2000.

5. Silk Isfahan Rug ($4.45 million)

Credit: Christie's

The Silk Isfahan Rug is believed to have been woven in the city of Isfahan, located in central Iran, during the 17th century. As the name suggests, the Silk Isfahan Rug is primarily made from silk, which imparts it with a luxurious texture and a stunning sheen.

This rug is celebrated for its exquisite design, featuring intricate floral and geometric patterns, as well as intricate arabesques. The central medallion is a focal point, surrounded by an array of detailed motifs and borders. The carpet was believed to have been made during the era of Shah Abbas the Great.

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The carpet represents the fusion of Persian and Islamic design traditions. In 2008, the Silk Isfahan Rug achieved a remarkable sale price of $4.45 million at the Christie's auction.

4. Pearl Carpet of Baroda ($5.5 Million)

Credit: Sotheby's

The Pearl Carpet of Baroda originates from the princely state of Baroda in India. It was crafted in the late 19th century, likely during the reign of Maharaja Khande Rao Gaekwad, who ruled from 1856 to 1870.

The entire carpet is covered in a staggering 1.5 million natural Basra pearls, which vary in size and shape. These pearls are complemented by the inclusion of approximately 2,500 diamonds, including a remarkable central diamond in the center of the carpet. Additionally, emeralds and sapphires are interspersed throughout the intricate design.

The design of the carpet features intricate floral and geometric patterns, with a central floral medallion surrounded by a symmetrical layout of vines and blossoms. With such precious gemstone embedded on the carpet, it was sold at the Sotheby's auction in 2009 for the hefty price of $5.5 million.

3. Mughal 'Star Lattice' Carpet ($7.7 Million)

Credit: Christie's

The Mughal 'Star Lattice' Carpet is a remarkable and historically significant piece of collection due to its association with the Mughal Empire. This extraordinary carpet was sold in the Christie's auction for $7.7 million in 2013.

This carpet is celebrated for its stunning geometric design, which features an intricate star lattice pattern. The lattice is adorned with delicate and detailed floral motifs, creating a harmonious and balanced composition.

Crafted with the finest materials available at the time, the Mughal 'Star Lattice' Carpet is primarily made of silk, with exceptionally high knot density, often exceeding 600 knots per square inch.

2. Kirman 'Vase' Carpet ($9.6 Million)

Credit: Christie's

The Kirman 'Vase' Carpet is a highly prized antique Persian rug that has garnered attention for its stunning design and historical significance. The Kirman 'Vase' Carpet is believed to have been woven in the 17th century, during the Safavid Dynasty in Persia (modern-day Iran).

The carpet's design is a masterpiece of floral and botanical motifs. It features a central vase or urn overflowing with an array of colorful and intricate flowers. The design is set against a rich, dark blue background with an elegant border adorned with more floral patterns and arabesques.

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The Kirman 'Vase' Carpet is of substantial size, measuring approximately 17 feet by 6 feet (5.18 meters by 1.83 meters). In April 2010, the Kirman 'Vase' Carpet achieved a historic sale price of $9.6 million at the Christie's auction making it the second most expensive carpet ever sold.

1. Clark Sickle-Leaf Carpet ($33.8 Million)

Credit: Sotheby's

The Clark Sickle-Leaf Carpet is a legendary and exceptionally valuable antique rug that holds a special place in the world of art and collectibles. It is renowned for its record-breaking sale price of $33.8 million at the Sotheby's auction in 2013 which makes it the most expensive carpet in the world.

The Clark Sickle-Leaf Carpet is believed to have been woven in the mid-17th century during a similar time as the Kirman 'Vase" Carpet. The carpet features a rich red field adorned with a magnificent central medallion, elaborate corner spandrels, and a uniquely rendered palmette and vine-scroll motif. 

The leaves, or "sickle leaves," in the design are a distinctive feature, giving the carpet its name. This carpet is of considerable size, measuring approximately 8 feet by 6 feet (2.44 meters by 1.83 meters). 

What makes it even more remarkable is its high knot density, with an estimated 350-400 knots per square inch.

Also read: Top 7 Most Expensive Fabrics In The World