Exquisite Antique Allover Ivory Needlework Wool Rug – Circa 1880 BB8514 10'6" × 13'7" $75,000

This exquisite 19th-century European needlepoint rug is a striking celebration of floral elegance and craftsmanship. Woven circa 1880, the rug showcases an intricate composition centered around a lavish circular medallion filled with a vivid bouquet of roses, peonies, tulips, and daisies, surrounded by a delicate garland of fruit and blossoms. Radiating outward from the centerpiece, the dark background becomes a dramatic stage for an orchestrated array of individual floral wreaths and richly detailed rose clusters.

Set against a deep ebony field, the brilliant, saturated tones of crimson, ivory, coral, violet, and celadon create vibrant contrast and romantic drama. The layout is meticulously symmetrical—each floral motif carefully placed between soft rose-and-ivory cartouches framed with curling Rococo scrolls and ribbons in sky and cobalt blue.

The rug’s border reinforces the refined, courtly aesthetic, repeating oval floral medallions with ribbon bows, giving it the air of an opulent 18th-century salon. Stylized gold scrollwork punctuates the field, evoking classic baroque ornamentation. These elements suggest the rug may have been inspired by French Aubusson tapestries, yet rendered in a distinctly needlepoint tradition that speaks to Victorian tastes.

Despite its age, the rug retains strong visual clarity in its motifs, though some wear and patina in the field add to its antique character and authenticity. It’s a testament to European textile artistry and ideal for formal interiors seeking historical charm and floral richness.

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.