Antique Ningshia carpet, China, late nineteenth century
Imperial workshop Chinese rugs of this type are eagerly sought after for the grace and delicacy of their design and the subtle beauty of their coloration, and this example is no exception. The field consists of delicate openwork medallions along with floral sprays and cornerpieces, all surrounding a central medallion with a classic Chinese dragon. Like the cornerpieces, the border is made up of delicate flowering vines, along with a meander guard stripe to make the distinction between the field and border crisper and more emphatic. The color is incomparable especially because of the interplay between the champagne gold and soft, mauvey purple. In every way, this piece epitomizes the incomparable elegance of classic Chinese design.
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