Antique Alpujarra Rug
Alpujarra rugs were traditionally woven between the 15th and the 19th centuries in the villages of the Alpujarra district, located in southern Spain in the Granada region. These are woven in wool on a linen foundation by means of a loop pile technique, which is one of the earliest weaving methods known to mankind as seen on a number of ancient fragmentary rugs. Alpujarra rugs were often commissioned by the local aristocracy, this being sometimes documented with inscriptions.
The present example is distinguished by an endless repeat diamond grid containing a stylised floral motif, in tones of red and indigo set against a light background. Woven on narrow panels which were then joined to create the pattern, it is signed by the weaver, Filomena Nappi, and dated 1891. It’s in near mint condition, and was probably always used as a precious hanging.