Antique Amritsar Indian Allover Floral Warm Tan Hand-Knotted Wool Rug – Circa 1880 BB5564 10'10" × 13'5" $75,000

A masterful example of 19th-century Indian craftsmanship, this antique Amritsar rug—woven around the 1880s—exudes refined opulence and cultural richness. Rooted in the legacy of the Amritsar weaving tradition, the piece showcases the region’s unique ability to blend Persian-inspired artistry with a distinctly Indian sensibility.

The field of the rug features an arresting midnight charcoal ground, a rare and bold choice, setting the stage for an explosion of ornate floral and botanical motifs in jewel-like tones of crimson, gold, celadon, ivory, and sky blue. Large palmettes, stylized vines, and multi-petal blossoms are arranged in a symmetrical lattice pattern, evoking a regal Mughal garden rendered in wool.

This intricate composition is further enriched by dramatic abrash (color variation), enhancing the sense of age and artisanal depth. The drawing is crisp and expressive, with layers of detail that invite close study.

The rug’s elaborate border complements the central field with a striking contrast: an ivory ground densely populated with crimson blossoms, angular vinery, and serrated leaves. A narrower ruby-red guard stripe adorned with rosettes and delicate floral elements further frames the piece, providing a sense of harmony and containment.

Hand-knotted in high-grade wool, the rug boasts a soft yet durable pile with a luminous sheen. The weaving technique reflects the Persian asymmetrical knotting system commonly used in Amritsar during the British colonial period, tailored to satisfy both domestic and Western tastes.

During the 19th century, Amritsar emerged as a hub for artistic rugs crafted under the patronage of both Indian nobility and British clientele. Rugs like this one were often made for export or estate commissions, reflecting both Persian artistic traditions and Victorian-era preferences for richly colored, highly decorative floor coverings.

This rug is in excellent antique condition with expected signs of age, including slight wear and subtle fading that enhance its authenticity and charm. Its generous size and stately presence make it ideal for a grand salon, formal library, or collector’s showcase.

As part of the curated collection at Doris Leslie Blau, a brand celebrated for its dedication to quality and design heritage, this rug exemplifies their commitment to originality and artisanry. 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.