Antique Bessarabian Kilims are very rarely found in large sizes, as most were woven in an almost standard 6 x 9 feet format. This stunning example maintains the wonderful palette and the graceful pattern of the smaller types but in a more useful room size format. The pattern is typical of French Aubusson carpets of the 18th century, which was the great inspiration behind these important Russian workshop carpets. The quality of weave is of the best workshop examples, with the curved wefts adding to the flow of the pattern. A very rare carpet that represents the pinnacle of decorative weavings from the 19th century.