Object Description
Striking c. 1900s Moroccan Carpet
3.04 x 2.35 m
The Berber tribes of Morocco have worked as rug weavers for centuries, perhaps even since prehistoric times, and today are well known for the creativity of their designs, and, thanks to a long-standing native tradition of sheep herding in the Atlas Mountains, the extraordinary quality of the wool used in their carpets. These pieces are highly prized by collectors today, partly thanks to early 20th Century designer and architect, Le Corbusier, whose fondness for Berber carpets was well known, introducing them to the Western market.
This striking example features an unusual, geometric design, employing a soft terracotta ground, working to complement the wide colour palette used in the drawing, including shades of duck-egg blue, ivory, and sage green, all framed by an interesting three-part outer border, with a series of irregular patterns skirting its edges. The artist has employed a playful composition, using a three-tone zig-zag inner border to set up a dynamic contrast between the open field of the large central medallion, and the creative, stamped motifs in the spandrels in the corners.
A charming early tribal piece, retained in very good condition, and with a wonderfully inventive design that would suit both a modern or classic interior.