Antique Chinese Oriental Carpets 682

Chinese Mat, China, Early 19th Century - This Chinese mat is the epitome of reserved elegance and classic subtlety. A ring of cloudband spirals defines a medallion at the center, filled by barely perceptible vines and leaves. A similar array of delicate floral elements is arrayed around the medallion, enclosed by a zone of cloud patterns that provide only the hint of a border. The coloration is classically Chinese with its soft golds, terracottas, blues, and ivory, beautifully complementing the delicacy of the design.