Beautiful Large Antique French Savonnerie Rug, Country Of Origin: France, Circa Date: 1850 – French Savonnerie rugs feature breathtaking designs that reflect a time when design trends were an expression of wealth and prestige. Our magnificent rug from around 1850 shows the care that went into these intricate designs. Its delicate feel reflects the expertise of the Savonnerie carpet workshops.
The Savonnerie workshops were established in 1627 by Pierre DuPont under the direction of King Louis XIII. The name “Savonnerie” was later used to describe rugs created at other centers in a similar style. Originally, these rugs were created for the French courts and used in government buildings, accounting for their large-scale designs and overall size. They remained popular among the upper levels of society through the centuries and have found their way into many fine collections.
In the 18th century, efforts were made to modernize many of the earlier Renaissance designs. The colors became brighter, and Rococo elements were introduced, as seen in our rug. You will often find motifs like the fleur-de-lis or family heraldry in the designs. Napoleon influenced Savonnerie carpet designs when he commissioned carpets in the Empire Style. In 1825, the Savonnerie workshops merged with the Gobelins Manufactory, but they continued to produce exquisite masterpieces.
Savonnerie carpets are lavish and create a formal feel. This rug would be perfectly at home in a room with marble floors, tall ceilings, and columns. It would also make an excellent addition to a formal dining room or area for conversation. The brilliant colors are warm and inviting. Its symmetry and attention to detail bring an elegance that will pair well with furniture in a more classic or traditional style. Of course, if you are fortunate enough to have an Empire-Era home, this rug is a necessity. Savonnerie carpets give the space a timeless feel and are the perfect addition to classic rooms for a sense of authenticity or to modern spaces as a point of contrast. It would be perfect in a room that features just a touch of gold in the accents. Today, you can use them to create a space with a distinctively sophisticated feel.
