Antique Donegal Irish Rug 43780

Donegal Rug, Ireland, Late 19th Century - While antique Donegal carpets often reflect Medieval Irish and Art Nouveau styles, this magnificent example takes inspiration from classical Persian design, especially Kerman vase carpets. Here swaying vines with richly detailed palmettes in shades gold and apricot all repeat across a spacious soft aubergine field. The border consists of rosettes in alternation with floral bouquets against an apricot ground. While the design itself is clearly Persia, one may detect a certain Irish folk art quality in the brisk, bold drawing, just as the palette recalls Medieval Irish ornamental manuscript painting.