Antique Chinese Saddle Cover
125 cm x 57 cm
Nr. 2566

Floral Antique Chinese Saddle Cover, dark blue with border

Place of origin

The pattern of this rug is inspired by the pattern of a classic Saddle Cover. However, this rug has been knotted in China. Probably rugs became known very early in China. The invasion of the Mongols around 1279, who not only carried Central Asian rugs with them, but also used rugs as tents and saddlery, boosted local production, which probably already existed at that time. An exhibition in Saint Louis (USA) in 1903 sparked an interest in Chinese rugs among the Western world. Soon afterwards, rugs were produced in China solely for export to Europe and North America.

This saddle cover emphasizes the original function of hand-knotted rugs. Presumably it was used as padding or saddle cover for horseback riding. This antique Saddle Cover is a collector's item. It is about 120 years old and, therefore, a really special piece. Antique rugs like this Saddle Cover are still very popular and are sold at top prices by renowned auction houses.

Patterns

The luxuriant flower motifs of this Saddle Cover are elegant and varied. The graceful vegetative symbols representing flowers, leaves and branches are artfully intertwined.

The edge of the rug is decorated with an edging (border). The border forms a excellent contrast to the center.

The background of this Saddle Cover is dark blue. The border is dark blue.

Condition

You are not the first to appreciate this Saddle Cover. It has had owners before you who have cherished and used it. It was hand knotted about 1900. We have cleaned it thoroughly and restored it lovingly. Therefore it is in very good condition despite its age.

Material

Chinese rugs are hand knotted from silky shiny wool. For the production of high quality Chinese rugs the coat of the Tibetan goat is used. The knot density is, as is typical in Chinese rugs, relatively low and the pile is shorn long.

Wool is obtained through the gentle shearing of sheep. Virgin wool is a sustainable, natural raw material with a number of impressive properties: Due to wool's natural fat content, the surface repels water droplets and is thus naturally impervious to dirt. Wool also offers excellent thermal insulation, has a regulating effect on the indoor climate and muffles sound. The weft and warp threads of this Saddle Cover are made of cotton. This versatile material is tear-resistant and stretchable and, therefore, ideal for a durable backing fabric.