Vintage Irish Arts & Crafts Abstract Slate Gray Hand-Knotted Wool Carpet BB6680 13'4" × 21'5" $105,000

A remarkable example of the Arts and Crafts Movement in textile form, this antique Irish Donegal rug from circa 1900 radiates botanical elegance and exceptional craftsmanship. Hand-knotted in Ireland, the expansive piece exemplifies the signature style of Donegal workshops, renowned for their naturalistic themes and masterful use of color.

The central field features a dense, symmetrical arrangement of stylized ivy leaves rendered in rich olive and forest greens against a muted taupe ground. The design evokes a sense of rhythm and balance, with the foliage forming a seamless lattice reminiscent of stained glass motifs or medieval tapestries.

Surrounding the center is a vibrant border that adds vivid contrast: trailing vines of multicolored maple and grape leaves—outlined in claret red and highlighted in teal, rose, coral, and ochre—intertwine with painterly precision. A narrow orange and indigo stripe provides subtle framing, echoing the arts-and-crafts emphasis on structural clarity.

This rug is not only a decorative marvel but a historical artifact, reflecting the philosophy of the Arts and Crafts movement: harmony with nature, honest materials, and the elevation of traditional craftsmanship. In excellent condition for its age, with only gentle patina and slight wear in the center, this Donegal stands as a rare and noble testament to early 20th-century Irish textile artistry.

A rare piece from the Doris Leslie Blau Collection, this rug exemplifies superior artistry and tradition. Doris Leslie Blau offers a broad and varied pricing spectrum, accommodating collectors and designers across a range of budgets—from modest vintage finds to rare, museum-worthy masterpieces.