CIRCA: 1920 (OR BEFORE)
A striking khaden with three medallions and the so-called ‘frog foot’ design scattered throughout the center field. The main border is a well executed interlocking yungdrung (swastika) design with an almost 3D effect, while an inner minor border mimics the tigma crosses often found in Tibetan tie-dyed cloth. The carpet has relatively low pile, mostly throughout the center, and the selvages were once a wool frill of about 7 / 8cm (3 inches) that has worn away over the years. However, the ‘frilled’ edges on these type of carpets were also sometimes intentionally cut off / trimmed back – by Tibetans themselves – so the carpet could be ‘encased’ within their much beloved ‘flannel’ covered felt borders. [A published example with a similar design, and bordered with the above mentioned felt, can be seen on page 39 in the book Woven Jewels; Tibetan Rugs from Southern California Collections.] Primarily natural dyes. A very interesting and well designed stand-out piece.