Vintage Chinese Art Deco Abstract Oversized Pale Sand Hand-Knotted Wool Rug BB2666 14'4" × 23'2" $95,000

This exceptional oversized vintage Chinese Art Deco rug, dating from the 1940s, is a rare and refined example of the elegant decorative arts tradition that flourished in early 20th-century China. The rug’s sweeping composition and subtle tonal palette reflect the sophisticated aesthetic of the Art Deco era, while incorporating traditional Chinese motifs and symbolism.

Woven in an arresting yet understated palette of soft celadon and pale sapphire blues, the rug’s field is densely patterned with stylized cloud bands and fretwork—a classic reference to Chinese visual tradition. At regular intervals, auspicious Buddhist symbols such as the Endless Knot (symbolizing eternal harmony), along with stylized lotus blossoms and chrysanthemums, emerge from the scrolling vine motifs, reinforcing the spiritual and cultural richness of the piece.

What truly distinguishes this rug is its exquisite border design. Surrounding the central field are intricately rendered phoenixes—mythical birds representing high virtue and grace, as well as feminine power and renewal. These phoenixes appear in elegant mirrored pairs, flanking peony blossoms or perched amidst swirling floral tracery. Their presence imparts a dynamic yet serene energy, making the rug not just a decorative element but also a symbolic tapestry of good fortune.

Woven in wool, the rug features a medium-low pile and a dense knotting technique, providing both softness and durability. Its fine craftsmanship and massive scale make it ideal for grand interior spaces, offering both visual drama and timeless sophistication.

This exquisite rug is part of the diversified Doris Leslie Blau selections, renowned for its curated selection of antique, vintage, and contemporary rugs. Doris Leslie Blau offers a vast selection of antique, vintage, and contemporary rugs in a wide range of styles, materials, and price points, making fine textile art accessible to both collectors and designers alike.