In the early 17th century, French artisans crafted exquisite Savonnerie rugs, ushering in a significant chapter in the realm of luxurious carpet weaving. During the reign of King Henry IV of Navarre, these skilled craftsmen established the first royal workshops, including a notable carpet factory, laying the foundations for this illustrious artistic legacy. They initially produced these handcrafted masterpieces in dedicated spaces, reflecting the grandeur and opulence of the royal court.
Following the monarch’s demise, the production hub transitioned to an unconventional locale—the premises of a disused soap factory on the outskirts of Paris. The term ‘Savonnerie’ originated from this soap factory, and it wasn’t long before the splendid carpets crafted within its walls became synonymous with the name. This pivotal shift added a distinctive historical charm to the Savonnerie rugs, further intertwining the legacy of French craftsmanship with the peculiar tale of a soap factory turned carpet haven.
Inspired by French Aubusson and Savonnerie carpets, this example belongs to a collection of rugs woven in Spain at the dawn of the 20th century. Its pastel hues impart a particularly ‘shabby chic’ aesthetic, rendering it especially captivating.
