Antique Oriental Indian Hinting Scene Design Late 19th Century Rug 42295

Antique Indian Rug, India, Late 19th Century – The late nineteenth century witnessed an extensive revival of rug weaving in Northern India that brought to life once again the great weaving traditions of the Mughal period. Although rarely have such Indian carpets managed to equal their illustrious forerunners. This magnificent example, however, is every bit the peer of the great Mughal court hunting carpets and the Safavid Persian masterpieces that inspired them. Here mounted bowmen accompanied by elephants and footmen cavort across a rich terracotta field laden with floral and animal abundance. Deer, antelope, and lions flee before their pursuers while two dragons rear in the lower corners. A lavish arabesque strapwork and cloudband border encloses the field, set against an aubergine ground that nicely contrast the terracotta ground within it. Multiple minor borders add to the fine complexity of the overall composition. Truly a carpet fit for a king.