Herati or "fish" design is one of the most famous carpet patterns. The origin of the design is a mystery. The name Herati attributes its origin to the city of Afghanistan. However, this is disputable as the earliest examples are Persian from the 17th century.

The repeating element in such rugs is two fishes that form a circle around a lotus-shaped flower and a circular flower within a square. Two fishes have possibly originated from the Zoroastrian scripture that describes two Kar fishes that Ahuramazda created to guard the tree of all seeds (the lotus-like flower is the stylization of the tree) against the "Ahriman", the dark lord. The other notable element, the round flower within the square, refers to wholeness and unity.

Thie carpet here has a beautiful colour combination and a straightforward design. With its lush pile, it could provide comfort and charm to a variety of settings.

Wool on Cotton. Circa 1960s.