A visually striking early 20th-century Tibetan khaden (sleeping rug), hand-knotted in durable Himalayan wool renowned for its resilience, warmth, and naturally lustrous surface.
The rug is distinguished by its bold and well-balanced composition: a central dark indigo field panel is framed by a vibrant outer red frame, creating a powerful contrast that immediately draws the eye. Within this central field, three large stylised floral motifs—most closely identifiable as peony blossoms—are arranged vertically, their soft, rounded forms rendered in warm tones of coral, apricot, and ivory, with subtle green accents suggesting foliage.
These blossoms appear almost suspended within the dark ground, framed by gently curving vegetal elements that introduce movement and fluidity. In contrast, the outer border is composed of strong geometric motifs in alternating tones of red, cream, and deep blue, lending the piece a sense of structure and architectural rhythm.
The palette remains vivid yet harmonious, likely enhanced by early synthetic dyes that have matured gracefully over time. The wool pile, woven using the traditional Tibetan loop-and-cut technique, is dense and compact, offering both tactile richness and excellent clarity of design.
This rug exemplifies a refined interplay between floral elegance (central peony motifs symbolising prosperity and beauty), geometric strength (protective and framing border elements) and chromatic contrast.
A highly decorative and collectible example of Tibetan weaving, this khaden combines bold visual presence with cultural symbolism.
Age: Late 1900s-early 20th century
Condition: Very well preserved with no major repair
Colours (11): Dark blue / medium blue / light blue / orange / salmon / light pink / rust / ivory / off-white / moss green / aubergine
Dimensions: 83 cm x 156 cm (32.7 in x 61.4 in)
