Object Description
Large scale wool Aubusson rug with carbouchons, flowers and shell motifs on oyster ground. The rug has faded about the perfect amount without losing all of the colours. This level of wear is desirable because it means that the rug can fit into an existing country house setting, whereas a brand new one could be too bright for its surroundings.
French 20th Century £4800
141″ x 217″
11’9″ x 18’1″
358cm by 551cm
Aubusson is well known for its tapestry and carpets, which have been famous throughout the world since the 14th century. Its origins were born with the arrival of weavers from Flanders, who took refuge in Aubusson around 1580. There is a famous collection of Aubusson tapestries at Vallon-Pont-d’Arc. The style of the tapestries produced has changed through the centuries, from scenes of green landscapes through to hunting scenes. In the 17th Century, the Aubusson and Felletin workshops were given “Royal Appointment” status. A downturn in fortunes came after the French revolution and the arrival of wallpaper. However, tapestry made something of a comeback during the 1930s, with artists such as Cocteau, Dufy, Dali, Braque, Calder and Picasso being invited to Aubusson to express themselves through the medium of wool. Aubusson tapestry still thrives today, preserving a range of traditional skills.