Object Description
Square Format Anatolian Kilim, c. 1920s
2.50 x 2.40 m
Anatolia, the western region of Turkey, has a long-standing rug-weaving tradition, stretching back at least as far as the 13th Century. As the explorer Marco Polo once wrote, ‘Here they make the most beautiful silks and carpets, and in the most beautiful colours.’ It is these same carpets, among the first to reach the European market in the Early Modern era, that one can spot in many of the paintings of the Old Masters, including those of Holbein, Vermeer, and Reubens.
Of these Anatolian weavings, flatweave kilims such as this charming antique 1920s example are among the most highly prized; this example features a bold graphic drawing usually found in earlier 18th century examples. The muted tan field complements the spacious design and array of vegetable dyed colours, framed by a wide ivory border of generous proportions.
Retained in very good condition for everyday use, an attractive example with a charming naivety to blend in a wide variety of settings.