Antique Melas Rug 45480

Melas Rug, Turkey, Late 19th Century - Full of ancient symbols and duplicitous floral motifs, this classic antique Turkish rug created circa 1880 features a naturally narrow field flanked by multiple sets of contrasting borders that continue the dominant floral vinescroll motif. Colorful latch hook extensions and zigzagging motifs with stepped edges line the borders of each compartment. Colorful chevron stripes and running water motifs decorate each compartment adding layers of detail to the seemingly simple composition. Quirky vinescrolls decorated with blossom-like combs embellish each compartmental border along with arthropodal ram's horn motifs and symbolic berekets. This carefully composed rug cleverly uses traditional vinescroll motifs to embellish the central field, walnut-brown inner borders and warm chestnut-brown outer borders. This classical Turkish rug from Melas features traditional motifs rendered in a splendid selection of stately colors that have aged gracefully since the carpet's creation circa 1880.