Vintage Samarkand Rug BB6360 11'3" × 12'0" $38,000

A mesmerizing synthesis of East and West, this early 20th-century Samarkand rug from the famed weaving centers of East Turkestan is a breathtaking example of the artistic and cultural confluence that defined Central Asian textile traditions. Woven circa 1920, this rare carpet seamlessly integrates Chinese iconography, Persian symbolism, and Western Art Deco sensibilities into a unified and harmonious whole.

The centerpiece of this majestic rug is a powerful dual dragon motif, executed in arresting tones of sapphire and teal. These serpentine creatures — emblematic of imperial authority, cosmic energy, and protection in Chinese lore — coil dynamically across the crimson field in a mirror-like symmetry, exuding motion and spiritual gravitas. Between them, a flaming pearl of wisdom, rendered in cream and coral, hovers with ethereal force, reinforcing the mythical narrative.

Surrounding the dragons is a drifting constellation of auspicious cloud bands and stylized floral medallions, artfully placed to evoke movement and celestial rhythm. The rich terracotta red field, slightly abrashed from natural dyes and time, provides a regal yet earthy backdrop that enhances the drama of the composition.

The rug’s framing border system is as sophisticated as the central field. The main border showcases repeating eight-petaled blossoms enclosed within diamond latticework — a motif associated with fertility, rebirth, and protection. This floral rhythm is punctuated by angular vine work and floating blossoms in muted blues, creams, and cocoa tones.

Flanking this is a series of guard borders that feature a dotted pearl motif and meandering vines with delicate herati-style flowers, adding balance and a sense of measured progression to the bolder central theme. Notably, these peripheral elements draw from Persian design vocabulary, illustrating the cross-cultural design synthesis that Samarkand rugs so famously embody.

Woven from wool, this rug boasts a medium pile with a soft, dense texture, offering tactile warmth and durability. The weave is consistent with the craftsmanship associated with Khotan artisans, combining structural integrity with nuanced detail. The palette, derived from natural vegetable dyes, has mellowed with grace over the past century, lending the piece a rich patina and painterly depth.

Samarkand rugs, particularly those from the Khotan region, occupy a unique niche in rug history. Situated along the Silk Road, Khotan was a vital melting pot of Chinese, Turkic, Mongol, and Persian influences. The resulting rugs from this region, such as this example, are distinctive for their hybrid motifs, artistic boldness, and exceptional weaving standards. They serve as both decorative objects and historical documents — visual archives of trade, spirituality, and aesthetic innovation.

This exquisite rug is part of the diversified Doris Leslie Blau selections, renowned for its curated selection of antique, vintage, and contemporary rugs. 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.