Tibetan Horse Blanket | Colored Peonies

Early 1900s Tibetan Horse Blanket (Thekeb).

This rare Tibetan horse blanket, known as a Thekeb, is a superb example of traditional craftsmanship from the early 20th century. Woven from hand-spun wool, it served both to protect the horse and to display status during ceremonies and long journeys, reflecting the Tibetan reverence for horses.

The upper band features a golden triangle flanked by flowering vases, a motif linked to the Xinjiang oasis weaving traditions and symbolizing abundance. Below, a frame of the double key meander represents eternity and continuity.

The vibrant orange central field displays two large, richly colored peonies, emblems of nobility and prosperity, surrounded by floral motifs. A striking outer border evokes ocean, mountain, and sky, connecting the design to the Tibetan landscape and cosmology.
Well-preserved and rich in symbolism, this rare piece stands as both a functional object and a textile work of art, perfect for collectors of Central Asian and Himalayan artifacts.

Warp: Hand-spun wool
Weft: Hand-spun wool
Colours (11): Light to dark orange / coral / light to dark red / cream — beige / camel / maroon / light to dark blue / walnut-brown / green-grey / blue-green / brown-gold
Dimensions: 176 cm x 102 cm (69.3 in x 40.2 in)