The Celestial Gunbad (Architectural Dome) Carpet | 6 ft x 9 ft Fine Hand-Knotted Kashmiri Silk-on-Silk Rug (484 KPSI / 60 Raj) | Modern Heritage Design by Jos and Fine

The Curatorial Note

Conceived as an architectural study in silk, this 6 ft by 9 ft Kashmiri carpet translates the soaring geometry of classical Islamic and Mughal vaulted domes (gunbad) into a two-dimensional textile plane. At the epicentre lies a complex, multi-tiered lotus mandala rendered in interlocking girih-inspired latticework, mimicking an illuminated oculus. From this central axis, elongated triangular and trapezoidal facets radiate outward in a calculated trompe-l'œil perspective, drawing the eye from the intimate intricacy of the core toward the expansive octagonal perimeter. Each radiating rib acts as an individual botanical gallery, densely populated with meandering islimi vinery, split-leaf palmettes, and miniature rosette blossoms that honour the courtly ateliers of Srinagar while presenting a striking geometric modernism. Framing the vault is a delicate ring of classic Kashmiri boteh (paisley) cartouches, recessed within scrolling cerulean spandrels and an outer border of alternating diamond lozenges.   

The chromatic orchestration of this piece relies on a sophisticated tension between warmth and coolness. Grounded in rich terracotta, burnt sienna, and raw ochre, the radial structure is cooled by wedges of powder cerulean, celadon mist, and muted dove taupe, all sharply delineated by fine indigo and charcoal outlines. Because the pile is knotted entirely from pure mulberry silk, these pigments behave dynamically under changing light. Viewed from one angle, the amber and terracotta facets project a deep, jewel-like saturation; viewed from the opposite axis, the silk fibres catch the ambient light, shifting toward a luminous champagne and silvery-blue lustre.   

Executed on a pure silk foundation at an exceptional density of 60 Raj (equating to 484 knots per square inch) this carpet represents over four million (40 Lakh) individual hand-tied knots. Such technical precision allows the master weavers at Jos and Fine to achieve curved floral contours and razor-sharp geometric intersections without visual stepping, evident on both the velvety pile surface and the crisp reverse. The result is a collector-grade heirloom that bridges the historical discipline of the Kashmiri talim with a bold, architectural sensibility suited to contemporary connoisseurship.   

The Spec Sheet

• Title & Design Typology: Architectural Dome (Gunbad) & Radial Starburst Medallion with Boteh Gallery and Diamond Cartouche Border.   

• Dimensions: Approx. 6 ft x 9 ft (183 cm x 274 cm).

• Material: 100% Pure Mulberry Silk pile on a 100% Pure Silk warp and weft foundation (Silk-on-Silk), finished with a hand-bound terracotta silk selvedge and ivory fringe.   

• Origin: Srinagar, Kashmir

• Technique & Fineness: Hand-knotted using the hybrid knot at 60 Raj - 484 Knots Per Square Inch (KPSI), yielding approximately 3,763,500 total knots across the field.   

• Primary Colour Palette:

  • Burnt Sienna / Cinnabar Terracotta Anchors the primary radial beams, selvedge, and border diamond cartouches.   

  • Powder Cerulean / Robin's-Egg Blue Illuminates the alternating radial wedges, spandrels, and floral medallions.   

  • Raw Ochre / Warm Amber Provides golden mid-tone warmth across the botanical ribs and guard stripes.   

  • Celadon Mist / Pale Sage Softens the outer chevron facets and central mandala petals.   

  • Dove Taupe / Mushroom Grey Introduces a neutral, contemporary counterbalance within the radial chambers.   

  • Parchment Ivory / Alabaster Defines the negative space, central starburst core, and delicate floral outlines.   

Interior Styling Context

With its commanding three-dimensional geometry and balanced interplay of terracotta and cerulean, this 6 ft x 9 ft silk carpet is ideally proportioned to anchor a refined drawing room, a private library, or an executive study. The radial symmetry pairs effortlessly with sculptural mid-century modern furniture in walnut or teak, or beneath a low-profile glass coffee table that leaves the central oculus unobstructed. Position the piece in a space with natural side-lighting to allow the silk's directional sheen to animate the architectural facets throughout the day.