Needlework with Polylobed Medallion and Confronting Leopards
N°
00198
Period
Circa 1600
Origin
Arraiolos, Portugal
Status
Available
Size
294 cm x 1529'7" x 4'11"
A magnificent blue ground early Arraiolos needlepoint displays a polylobed central medallion. This medallion draws clear inspiration from the so-called ‘Star Variant’ 15th/16th Century Ushak rugs. A pair of confronting leopards, reminiscent of early Safavid weavings, protect the medallion at the top and bottom. A plethora of motifs embellishes the field, including vases of flowering carnations rendered in the Ottoman style. Blossom palmettes, characteristic of the Arraiolos tradition, decorate the corner spandrels. An elaborate cartouche-type border, also typical of Arraiolos work, frames the piece.