Indian Antique Allover Oversized Soft Beige Hand-Knotted Wool Rug – Circa 1920 BB7749 16'5" × 27'0" $260,000

This breathtaking oversized antique North Indian rug, woven circa 1920, is a masterclass in refined artistry and textile craftsmanship. Exuding a lyrical elegance, the composition centers around an idyllic Tree of Life motif, a symbol deeply rooted in Eastern spiritual traditions, representing eternal growth, interconnectedness, and harmony.

The field is a veritable garden of paradise—lushly populated with delicate flowering trees, foliage, and exotic birds, all rendered with a soft, painterly touch. Peacocks, sparrows, and other birds gracefully perch on winding branches or flutter amidst blooming floral sprays, animating the field with gentle movement and serenity.

What sets this rug apart is the remarkable balance of intricacy and spaciousness. Despite the complexity of the design, the composition breathes, allowing each element—from individual blossoms to pairs of birds—to be clearly discerned. The color palette features faded apricot, camel, taupe, and celadon, accented with subtle charcoal outlines, producing a weathered patina that lends an authentic antique character.

A series of elegant floral guard borders frame the central tableau, with stylized palmettes, vines, and rosettes creating a rhythmic, undulating frame that supports and contains the interior scene without overwhelming it.

Meticulously hand-knotted using high-quality wool, the rug offers a silky, time-softened texture and remarkable durability. Despite its grand scale, it maintains an inviting warmth and organic sophistication, making it equally suited for traditional, bohemian, or artfully eclectic interiors.

This rare piece stands as a testament to North India’s weaving legacy during the British Raj period, when Persian influences were skillfully reinterpreted by Indian artisans to create uniquely lyrical and culturally layered works of textile art.

Rich in heritage and artistry, this handmade rug exemplifies the high standards of Doris Leslie Blau’s curated pieces. With a wide range of prices, Doris Leslie Blau makes exceptional rugs accessible to collectors and designers alike.