Antique Mongolian Carpet with Longevity Motifs
N°
00229
Period
Circa 1880
Origin
Northern China
Materials
Wool
Status
Available
Size
350 cm x 270 cm11'5" x 8'10"
The rare carpets of Mongolia have in recent years achieved a stature of their own. They differ from traditional Chinese carpets in that they typically employ geometric patterns. Mongolian carpets are further distinguished by the use of lustrous wool of medium-high shear and by their floppy handle. Here the indigo blue field is distinguished by a central geometric medallion, derived from stylisations of the dragon motif, as well as by a repeat pattern along parallel town of the shou ideogram in its two versions. The shou ideogram signifies ‘long life’ in Chinese. The geometric corner elements, also stylised dragon elements, and the Greek-fret border are distinguishing features of early Mongolian carpets.