An Oval Wreath in Burgundy
This handmade American hooked wool rug, circa 1920s, features an oval leaf wreath on a softly mottled grey-taupe ground. Burgundy leaves punctuate a brown stem, with curling tendrils extending around the oval.
The open centre gives the composition a quiet focal point. Cream accents and fine charcoal outlines define the wreath without filling the surrounding ground. Its simple arrangement contrasts with the more structured botanical frame.
The central leaves alternate in direction, introducing gentle movement around the oval. Their rich burgundy colour stands apart from the muted background. Small curls soften the outline and connect the foliage visually.
Golden Leaves and a Trellis Frame
Golden-yellow leaves wind around intersecting brown and cream bands near the perimeter. The bands cross at the corners and extend towards the outer edge. This arrangement creates a trellis-like frame around the central wreath.
Each leaf has a pointed tip and an irregular, serrated outline. Dark contours separate the yellow foliage from the ground. Cream edging adds a lighter accent beside the brown stems and bands.
Curling tendrils appear between the leaves, repeating the scrollwork of the central oval. Their loose curves balance the straight framing bands. The result combines geometric structure with an expressive botanical drawing.
A Restrained Ground with Warm Accents
The grey-taupe field provides a subdued setting for the yellow and burgundy foliage. Subtle variations in tone give the ground depth. Brown, cream and charcoal bring the separate elements together.
The hooked wool surface adds texture throughout the composition. Small differences in loop height and drawing contribute to its handmade character. The design remains spacious rather than densely patterned.
A narrow taupe binding finishes the perimeter, accompanied by a fine dark outline inside the edge. The corners are gently rounded. Slight irregularities keep the rectangular shape from appearing mechanically uniform.
Measuring approximately 134.6 × 96.5 cm, this rug offers an easy-to-place small format. It works beside a bed, near a reading chair or in a study. Warm wood and simple upholstery complement its autumnal colour accents.
Condition
Good overall condition, with light surface wear and variations in loop height and shading. The binding shows minor wear, with slight waviness along the edges. The leaf wreath and surrounding frame remain clearly defined.
Key Details
Origin: United States
Period: Circa 1920s
Style: American botanical folk art
Material: Wool
Technique: Handmade, hooked
Dimensions: Approximately 134.6 × 96.5 cm
Imperial dimensions: 4 ft 5 in × 3 ft 2 in, approximately 4.42 × 3.17 ft
Design: Oval leaf wreath, curling tendrils and leafy trellis border
Colours: Grey-taupe, golden yellow, burgundy, brown, cream and charcoal
Finishing: Narrow taupe bound edge
Condition: Light surface wear, varied loop height and shading, minor binding wear and slight edge waviness
SKU: 1B1040
Why It’s Special
The burgundy wreath and golden leafy frame create two distinct layers of botanical ornament. Open space between them keeps the composition balanced. Its quiet ground, warm accents and textured wool surface give this American folk-art rug an inviting character.
