Antique Balkan Embroidery 709

Blue Velvet Rug, Persia, 19th Century - A lush profusion of leafy golden vinescrolls sways gracefully across the deep blue surface of this extraordinary antique Balkan embroidery. This exuberant ornament encloses a central wreath-like medallion containing a nest of birds. Small and large borders of similar vinescrolls enclose the whole composition. The luxuriant aspect of the design is heightened by the use of gold metallic thread throughout.