CIRCA: 1930
Attractive ‘throne’ back and seat from the Baotou-Suiyuan / Inner Mongolia region of China, which given the colours was in all likelihood woven for an official (as opposed to the clergy). A precious jewel floats above the central medallion in the upper portion, while the main field in both is enclosed first by a inner border or pearls, and then by a ‘single key meander’ border. The outer main border then consist of trellised flowers and smaller floral-like roundels and / or ‘lucky-coin’ designs. The undyed white / off-white wool and various shades of blue make for a subtle though very pleasing design. It is woven as one completely piled piece; that is no pile-less ‘gap’ between the upper and lower portion as seen in some throne back carpets sets that remain as ‘intact / one-piece’. Made circa 1930 it has cotton warp and weft and the size 127cm x 65cm. Although it would benefit from a wash, it is very good condition with no repairs or reweaves and is moderately priced.