Hand-Knotted Tibetan Khaden Rug | Olive Roundels & Greek-Key Border

This elegant Tibetan weaving presents a classic arrangement of roundel motifs, clearly inspired by the refined vocabulary of Chinese silk brocades. The field is articulated through a disciplined repetition of these circular medallions, each enclosing stylised floral or symbolic elements, creating a harmonious and almost rhythmic visual cadence across the surface.

Unusually for this design type, the composition is framed by a distinct border—an uncommon and therefore particularly interesting feature. The border appears to draw upon an archaic “wave” motif, a pattern of considerable antiquity that is widely regarded as a precursor to the Greek key or meandering “T” design so often encountered in later Tibetan and Central Asian weavings. Its presence here lends the piece a sense of historical continuity and quiet authority.

The palette is both restrained and deeply expressive, with the saturated ground providing a rich counterpoint to the softly articulated roundels. The overall effect is one of balance and compositional clarity, underscored by the weaver’s confident control of both form and color.

Of particular note is the survival of the original textile bindings along the edges and ends. These cloth reinforcements—traditionally applied to protect the structurally vulnerable Tibetan selvedges—remain intact, offering not only practical insight into the rug’s original use and care, but also enhancing its authenticity and integrity as a preserved object.

Published analogy, Kuloy, Plate 97.

Referenced from "Dream Weavers - Textile Art of the Tibetan Plateau, Pages 126 & 127, Plate 39."

Age: Late 19th century - early 20th century
Condition: Well preserved with sound structure and no visible
Warp: 5 ply cotton
Weft: 1 shed lt. gray wool
Knots: 3+4 ply yarn, wool
10h x 6v= 60kpsi
Colors: Green with abrash/dk. blue-green
Dimension: 74cm x 150cm (29.1in x 59in)