19th Century Large Chinese Blue and Beige Rug (Size Adjusted) BB5887 14'0" × 21'0" $70,000

This circa-1880 antique Chinese vintage runner rug features a delicate all-over cream design against a field of sea-foam green. A repeating swastika pattern – a staple of antique Art Deco Chinese rugs for sale – composes the main border. There is evidence that decorative Oriental rugs and carpets have been a significant art form within the Chinese culture for many centuries, if not for several millennia.

Mostly in blues and beiges, with classical symbols of longevity, elaborate lotus blossoms, chrysanthemums and birds, these antique large area rugs are frequently visible in paintings from as early as the Tang Period. For the most part, designs of antique area rugs are as indigenous as those of antique Chinese porcelains and silk textiles, featuring the repeating simple design devices of swastikas and fretwork. Unlike Persian rugs, Chinese rugs are not generally associated with local rug production areas.