Carpet; first half 17th century; Made in Iran; probably Kashan; Silk; metal-wrapped thread; tapestry weave; H. 93 in. (236.2 cm); Textiles-Rugs; This carpet was among those produced for export to Europe and was formerly in the collection of the Royal House of Saxony. Unlike examples with scenes of animal combat or floral patterns within the central medallions; the field of this carpet contains a cross; an apt symbol for a European patron