Vintage Samarkand Rug BB7005 4'8" × 9'10" $16,000

Steeped in the rich cultural heritage of East Turkestan, this vintage Samarkand (Khotan) rug from the mid-20th century encapsulates the artistry and cross-cultural synthesis unique to the Silk Road region. Woven around 1945, the rug exhibits a masterful blend of Chinese, Persian, and Central Asian design traditions, all harmoniously unified into a singular textile expression.

The rug’s field presents a refined yet complex visual rhythm centered around three circular medallions. These medallions are adorned with rosette motifs and stylized flora, each emanating radial symmetry that suggests both celestial symbolism and garden-inspired serenity. The subdued terracotta, rosewood, and walnut tones lend a graceful patina, gently faded over time to a soft, earthy palette.

Encircling the medallions is a sparse field of floating floral sprays, delicately rendered in coral, pink, and muted saffron, providing a quiet contrast to the structured central forms. The field’s understated elegance is framed by an angular “cloud-band” border motif—a traditional design element borrowed from Chinese textile iconography—giving the composition a sense of motion and balance. Additional minor guard borders featuring X-shaped motifs, rosettes, and meandering vines bring a layered intricacy to the outer edges.

Hand-knotted using high-quality wool, the rug maintains a low, smooth pile, enhancing its subtle textural presence. The craftsmanship speaks to the skill of weavers in the Khotan region, known for their ability to infuse cultural hybridity into utilitarian beauty.

Whether displayed as a floor piece or a wall-mounted textile, this vintage Samarkand rug serves as both a decorative element and a historical artifact—an elegant fusion of design traditions passed through generations along the fabled Silk Road.

Expertly curated by Doris Leslie Blau, this rare rug is a testament to centuries of weaving artistry. 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.