$4,185. A near-black field is covered with a fine allover floral in coral, dusty rose and ivory, the silk content lending the blossoms a subtle glow against the dark ground, with a soft beige border providing a gentle transition at the margins. Dark-ground carpets were historically the more expensive to produce, since deep indigo and near-black required repeated immersion in the dye vat and the resulting yarn had to be woven with particular care to avoid crocking onto the pale motifs beside it. The reward is contrast that no light ground can match, the florals reading as though lit from within. The dark field carries well in a busy room while the pale ornament keeps the composition from feeling heavy. Design pattern: Allover floral on a dark ground, Tabriz. Size: 5'9" x 8'9". Gallery Collection.