A fine Sultanabad carpet from central Persia has sold at the top of Bonhams' auction of Fine Oriental Carpets and Rugs, which was held in Los Angeles on July 29.

Sultanabad was established especially as a centre for rug and carpet production, and examples from the region are of exceptional quality

The carpet sold for an impressive $37,500, rising 212% above its $12,000 high estimate.

The superb piece was created in the late 19th century in Sultanabad, Iran (now known as Arak), which was founded in 1808 especially for the purpose of rug production. Carpets from the region are hailed as being of the finest quality.

Also selling was a Meshed Emoghli carpet created circa 1900, which brought $36,250.

In June 2013, a "sickle leaf" Persian rug sold for $33.7m at Sotheby's - a new world record price for a Persian rug at auction.