Rya rug

Ask About Item

Price On Request

Main Image

Other Images

dancing girls

drummer?

prayer arch???!!! drummers and...

1794 MAMI

back

weave

Item Details

  • Size

    145cm(W) x 178cm(L) / 4'9"(W) x 5'10"(L)

  • Condition

    Very Good

    has a small bit of wear in the top right corner of the front and a couple of large wear spots on the back. One end appears as if it MIGHT be a bit truncated. Full pile, all original. Outstanding condition for and 18th century rug.

  • Structure

    pile on both sides, symmetric knot over 2 warps. s2z(!!!) warps, wefts, and knots.

  • Materials

    wool

  • Full Description

    exceptionally glossy, lanolin rich wool (it must get a trifle chilly in Finland). This rug seems to have seen everyday use on its reverse (also piled) plain undyed ivory wool side and turned face up only on special occasions. It is dated 1794 and has the inscription "MAMI" in the medallion. I don't know if this is a feminine forename or if it means 'mother'. The depiction of drummers and dancing girls suggests some sort of festive occasion. Folk art at its best. There is a fairly old sleeve sewn at the top end of the back.