CIRCA: 1900 / early 1900’s
A colourful above saddle carpet made in the Ningxia region of China that was in all likelihood intended for the Tibetan market. These saddle carpets were usually made as a two piece set – that is an odd shaped one for below the saddle and, usually, an oblong shaped one for above the saddle – but were often separated before being sold on the ‘western’ market. The main border consist of interlinked swastikas, while the inner border features a single-key meander, or alternatively referred to as the ‘running dog’ meander. At either end of the burnished gold center field is a prominent depiction of clouds, mountains (the mythical Mt Meru) and waves. At the very center is what could very loosely be interpreted as a double dorje design, but is more likely a flower surrounded by trellis like work, which is then anchored by four distinctive flowers in the main field. A mix of un-dyed wool and primarily natural dyes, and a cotton warp and a wool weft. It is in fairly good condition for its age, although missing a few rows of knots at one end, and showing wear commensurate with use as an above saddle carpet. A colourful but overall pleasing design that, given the Tibetan’s love of adding colour to their harsh landscape, would have been right at home in a Tibetan’s hands.