Vintage Samarkand Floral Warm Tan Hand-Knotted Wool Rug BB6464 6'3" × 12'4" $10,000

This striking mid-20th-century vintage Samarkand rug, woven in 1948 in East Turkestan, is a rare testament to the region’s storied textile heritage. Reflecting the eclectic blend of Chinese, Persian, and Central Asian influences that define Khotan weaving traditions, this piece stands out with its refined symmetry and symbolic motifs.

The rug’s field features a linear arrangement of five oversized amphora-like vases, rendered in soft browns and dusty pinks. These vessels—likely inspired by traditional Chinese ceramics—float against a muted camel-toned background, imbuing the composition with a serene, meditative quality. Additional smaller elements—baskets, coins, and talismanic forms—are interspersed throughout, suggesting abundance, protection, and balance.

Surrounding the central composition is a spacious, double-border design filled with a delicate lattice of geometric emblems, including ram’s horns, scrolling clouds, stylized lotuses, and T-shaped medallions. These designs subtly emerge in tone-on-tone variations, adding depth and dimension without disrupting the rug’s calm visual harmony.

The palette—earthy ochres, camel beige, faded rose, and walnut brown—has mellowed beautifully with age, showcasing the natural dyes used in its original hand-knotted wool construction. The low pile and finely worn texture enhance the rug’s antique appeal, making it as suitable for a refined interior as it is collectible for connoisseurs.

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.