1920s American Hooked Cotton Rug
This handmade American cotton rug dates to circa the 1920s and combines geometric detail with a richly coloured floral surround. Meandering angular lines cross an oatmeal, taupe and brown field. A broad burnt-orange border gives the muted centre a warm, emphatic frame.
Bold black scallops separate the orange band from an olive-green outer surround. Coral lines define a narrower inner frame, crossed by leafy stems and flower heads. The contrast between intricate geometry and larger botanical motifs gives the rug its distinctive character.
Maze-Like Geometric Field
The centre is filled with interlocking turns, stepped outlines and small irregular shapes. Pale lines weave around darker patches, creating a maze-like effect rather than a single central medallion. Changes in shade soften the pattern across the rectangular field.
The geometric lines vary in thickness and direction, adding movement to the surface. Some passages appear more open, while others form closely grouped angular shapes. This variation keeps the centre visually active without competing with the floral frame.
Flowers and Scalloped Border
Burgundy and dusty pink flowers cluster near the corners, their cream centres standing out against the surrounding colours. Sage and olive leaves extend along slender stems. Larger red star-shaped flowers interrupt the inner frame along the longer sides.
Small pale botanical ornaments occupy the outer corners within dark outlines. The orange border curves around them in a continuous scalloped rhythm. A narrow dark fabric binding finishes the perimeter and reinforces the outline of the rug.
Hand-Hooked Cotton Texture
The hooked cotton surface has visible variations in loop height and density. Directional changes in the loops add texture to both the geometric field and floral motifs. The softer centre contrasts with the more strongly coloured border.
The rug measures 4 feet 10 inches by 2 feet 11 inches, approximately 147.3 × 88.9 cm. Its compact rectangular format suits a bedside or quiet reading area. The reverse has light-coloured fabric backing with wide tan perimeter tape.
Condition
Good antique condition overall, with uneven surface wear, variations in loop height and localised thinning. Darker marks and tonal unevenness are visible across the central field. These remain noticeable within the geometric pattern.
The edges show minor waviness, and the dark binding has wear. The backing has a broad area of discolouration, visible when the corner is folded back. The rug is offered with these signs of age retained.
Key Details
Date: Circa 1920s
Origin: United States
Material: Cotton
Technique: Handmade, hand-hooked
Design: Maze-like geometric field with floral sprays and a scalloped border
Colours: Oatmeal, taupe, brown, burnt orange, olive green, coral, burgundy, cream, dusty pink, sage and black
Shape: Rectangular
Edge finish: Dark fabric binding
Backing: Light-coloured fabric backing with wide tan perimeter tape
Dimensions: 4 ft 10 in × 2 ft 11 in / approximately 147.3 × 88.9 cm
Decimal feet: Approximately 4.83 × 2.92 ft
Condition: Good antique condition with uneven wear, thinning, central marks, binding wear, edge waviness and backing discolouration
SKU: 1B1059
Why It’s Special
The appeal lies in the unexpected pairing of a maze-like centre with bold flowers and a dramatic scalloped border. Orange, olive and coral bring warmth to the quieter field. A characterful accent for a traditional interior or a collection of handmade American textiles.
