Brian MacDonald Antique Rugs & Carpets has dated this piece to the 1900s.
Their function was totally utilitarian - used for kneading the dough to make the delicious flatbread or 'lavash' in Persian.

This magnificent sofreh was woven around 1900 using natural, undyed wool in the central field and with highlights of madder-red and a tiny touch of indigo creating the pointed shapes on the side. the ivory band across the centre is woven in white cotton providing light in an amazing, earthy background.
This sofreh is outstanding.
Size: 1.22m x 1.18m (4' 0" x 3' 10").
Brian MacDonald Antique Rugs & Carpets has dated this piece to the 1900s.
Dealing in antique and old tribal rugs, dowry weavings and decorative carpets from the near east and central asia since 1979.
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Brian MacDonald Antique Rugs & Carpets Profile Page