Large Vintage Animal Design Spanish Rug 70759
Beautiful Large Vintage Animal Design Spanish Rug, Country of Origin: Spain, Circa Date: Mid 20th Century – This gorgeous mid-century modern rug from Spain tells the Biblical story of the Garden of Eden in beautiful colors and splendid detail. The beautiful teal, brown, green, and rose create an earthy combination that gives this rug an organic feel. Spanish rug artistry is known for large-scale repeating motifs and simple color palettes that blend well together. This breathtaking rug from Spain uses contrast to make the design stand out, and it also has a mystery to untangle.
This rug was created in the mid-20th century and reflects many elements that are found in traditional Spanish rugs that go back centuries. The art of rug making in Spain goes back to the 13th century during the occupation of the Moors. You will still find traces of Moorish influence in the designs. Heraldic elements are also a common motif in Spanish rugs.
This rug has a primitive feel that was popular in the midcentury style trends, but this whimsical animal rug has several fascinating traditional elements woven into its threads. The Garden of Eden theme stands out with the Tree of Life and serpent climbing its branches. You will also notice a phoenix, hounds, and bird of paradise. Lions and deer encircle the border. All of these symbols are borrowed from traditional Persian rugs. The outer border is a symbol found in Persian rugs that references water, adding to the Garden of Eden theme.
This delightful menagerie of characters supports the Biblical theme of the rug, but it is the style of the animals that creates the mystery surrounding this piece. The lions are drawn in a position that is heraldically known as passant, as is one of the hounds. The phoenix is a symbol of rebirth, and on this rug, it is drawn in a heraldic posture known as addorsed and elevated. Spanish heraldry traditionally uses four symbols in each crest. Was this rug created to represent a specific person or family, or is this just coincidence? If so, who do these symbols represent?
Regardless of the origins of this vintage rug, it would make a beautiful addition to a traditional, mid-century, or nature-inspired modern style. This is an unusual piece that would make an excellent addition to a collection. Can you solve the mystery woven into its threads?
