An early 20th-century horse blanket distinguished by its generous scale and compelling decorative presence. The composition is animated by finely articulated wave motifs that rise and curl at the corners, their dynamic movement punctuated by delicate droplets seemingly suspended in mid-air—an elegant reference to the water patterns found in Qing period silk textiles.
The central field is enlivened by large floral forms, their softly rounded contours lending balance to the energy of the surrounding elements. Of particular interest is the inclusion of a vase-and-flowering-plant motif within the upper border—an unusual and telling detail more commonly associated with the oasis weaving traditions of Xinjiang. The rounded profiles of the vases, echo an earlier aesthetic vocabulary, recalling 18th-century examples from that region.
This interplay of motifs—Tibetan in structure yet enriched with cross-cultural influences—speaks to a broader visual dialogue along the trade routes of Central Asia. The result is a textile that is not only visually engaging but also culturally layered, offering a rare glimpse into the exchange of artistic ideas across regions.
Referenced in “Dream Weavers – Textile Art of the Tibetan Plateau, pages 182 & 183, Plate 67.”
Age: Early 20th century (circa 1900–1930)
Condition: Structurally very well maintained given its age with no repairs
Warp: 2 Z S ivory wool
Weft: 1 shed ivory wool
Knots: 5 ply yarn, wool
9h x 4.5v: 40.5 kpsi
Colours: dk. blue/lt. blue/red/pink (faded)/purple/lt. orange/khaki tan/ivory
Size: 142cm x 90cm (55.9in x 35.4in)
