Large Antique Ivory Background Color Chinese Cloud Band Rug, Country of Origin / Type Of Antique Rug : Antique Chinese Rug, Circa Date: 1900 – This gorgeous blue antique Chinese rug was produced around 1900 and has a simple, yet formal feel. It is a larger piece that uses ivory and blue as the main colors for a two-toned repeating design.
Chinese rugs found their way into many late Victorian homes and were a common design feature later in Art Deco designs. Oriental carpets have always had an appeal that continues today. This beautiful design uses a simple color palette and an all-over design to create a piece with a classic oriental feel.
The carpet uses several common Chinese motifs. The field consists of what appear to be stylized pomegranate flowers and vine work leaves and stems. The stems and leaves are stylized in what seems to resemble somewhat of a cloud band pattern. This connects to the concept of heaven and the heavenly realms. Pomegranate blossoms are a symbol of abundance.
The borders add tan to the color scheme along with stylized Greek key patterns and budding leaves. This combination of symbols and colors creates a feeling of water, the heavens and abundance on earth. It has elements that connect the watery underworld, earth and the heavens in the classic oriental tradition.
This carpet is on the larger side and would make an excellent carpet in a formal setting. The entire design has a refined elegance. The pomegranate pattern is arranged in a relatively regular grid, but it is not carried out perfectly, which more closely mimics the natural world.
Even though this antique carpet has a rather simple design, it makes an impact through its use of contrast and the simplicity of the design. It would make a beautiful addition to a traditional, historical, or Asian design. It could also add a classic element that would add softness and tone down the harsh lines of contemporary design. This is a beautiful and unique oriental piece.