Object Description
An exquisite scrolling all over design on this refined antique Amritsar carpet woven in the late 19th century. The variety of dyes are famous with these luxurious fine carpets from India, using light blues, yellows, teal, burgundies and mauves. The gold yellow tones on the highly refined scrolling leaves appear to float over the light mauve background and the light green floral star designs are delicate too. Amritsar adapted their traditional carpet designs to correspond with western tastes and European influences, this piece is a fine example of their changing designs. The condition is good with some old restoration and some repair to one corner. The pile height is medium high all and is extremely durable.
Amritsar rugs and carpets are produced in Amritsar located in the northwest of India, near the Kashmir region. While India does in fact boast a long history of weaving fine rugs and carpets Amritsar rugs are unique in the wide gamut of traditional Indian styles. This is because the weavers of Amritsar had not developed a distinctive style of rug making until the early nineteenth century – hundreds of years after other regions of India had first developed their own weaving traditions. While regions of southern and western India began weaving Persian-influenced rugs during the reign of the Mughal Emperors, who preferred the traditional aesthetics and design elements of the Persians, the weavers of Amritsar took their direction from somewhere different: the sensibilities of the West.
Generally speaking, Amritsar rugs are based upon European influence and Western taste, a decision made by the weavers following the incredible explosion in demand for carpets in both the United States and Europe during the nineteenth century.[1] Basing design elements on Western tastes as opposed to Indian traditions, the weavers of Amritsar fashioned a style that is unique and easily distinguished from other Indian styles. Using high quality wool, Amritsar rugs are manufactured with a cotton foundation, double weft and an asymmetrical knot – all of which contribute to its luxurious feel.
We have been visiting customers all over the UK from London to Aberdeen, Ireland and Europe over the last 25 years. If you would like us to show you this stunning Amritsar carpet and any alternatives in-situ it would be a pleasure to show it to you. Request a home visit or contact us to arrange a day and time.