Antique Allover Floral Cream Beige Hand-Knotted Wool Runner(Fragment) – Circa 1880 (Fragment) BB7817 1'3" × 16'2" $9,000

This exquisite antique tapestry fragment runner, dating back to the 1880s, hails from Europe and reflects the refined craftsmanship and artistic sophistication characteristic of 19th-century textile art. Likely originating in France or Belgium—renowned centers of tapestry weaving during this era—this piece would have originally formed part of a larger decorative ensemble or wall hanging.

The composition is structured as a series of distinct panels, each adorned with lush botanical and classical motifs. A rhythm of urns, cornucopias brimming with fruit, acanthus leaves, and allegorical female figures rendered in soft beige, sage, teal, and faded gold tones is woven with extraordinary detail. The muted color palette, achieved through vegetable dyes, adds to the aged charm and patina of this fragment. Traces of red velvet trimming frame the runner, enhancing its elegance and lending a regal accent to the tapestry.

Though visibly aged and worn in areas—consistent with its age and historical use—the textile retains remarkable detail. The weft and warp weaving technique typical of Aubusson and Flemish traditions is evident in the tight, intricate construction. Each vignette narrates a slice of European decorative tradition, ideal for collectors or designers seeking an authentic historic textile to be used as a wall display, bed foot runner, or table adornment.

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.