1920s Hand-Knotted Wool Rug
This handmade antique wool rug dates to the 1920s and features three linked diamond medallions on a rich red field. Dark navy, ivory, soft pink and ochre yellow create a striking contrast. Intricate hooked outlines and delicate geometric details define the central arrangement.
Four stylised rosettes balance the composition, with a pair placed near each end of the medallion chain. A stepped arch at one end gives the field a distinctive silhouette. Multiple patterned borders frame the elongated design without crowding its spacious centre.
Three Linked Diamond Medallions
The dark diamond grounds emphasise pale geometric centres, where fine lines divide ivory and ochre shapes. Hooked outlines extend around each medallion, adding detail to its angular profile. Slender connecting motifs join the diamonds along the rug’s central axis.
The surrounding red field allows these forms to remain clearly separated. Soft pink accents temper the contrast between the deep navy and lighter details. Small variations in the wool surface introduce subtle tonal movement across the ground.
The four rosettes offer a rounded counterpoint to the angular medallions. Ivory and ochre sections surround dark details with red centres. Their balanced placement helps anchor both ends of the central composition.
Stepped Arch and Patterned Borders
At one end, the red field rises into a stepped arch within a dark navy surround. A narrow ivory geometric outline traces its shape. This asymmetry gives the otherwise orderly design an individual character.
Diagonal striped bands alternate dark and pale colours around the field. Between them, a wider ivory band carries star-like motifs linked by smaller geometric details. Repeated pink and ochre accents connect the borders visually to the central medallions.
The finely patterned frame brings rhythm to the length of the rug. Its dense detail contrasts with the more open red centre. Narrow dividing lines keep each border band distinct.
Wool and Hand-Knotted Construction
The hand-knotted wool surface gives the rug texture and a warm appearance. Its palette combines a saturated red ground with dark outlines and lighter decorative details. The reverse and end finishes are illustrated in the folded-corner photographs.
The rug measures 3 feet 2 inches by 6 feet 3 inches, approximately 97 × 191 cm. Its narrow proportions suit a bedside, entrance or intimate seating area. The elongated composition makes the linked medallions especially prominent.
Condition
Good antique condition, with light surface wear and uneven, worn fringes. Fringe lengths vary between the ends, with shortened and loose strands visible. The medallions, rosettes and patterned borders remain clearly defined.
Key Details
Period: 1920s
Material: Wool
Technique: Hand-knotted
Dimensions: 3 ft 2 in × 6 ft 3 in / approximately 97 × 191 cm
Design: Three linked diamond medallions, hooked motifs, rosettes and patterned borders
Colours: Red, dark navy, ivory, soft pink and ochre yellow
Condition: Good antique condition, with light surface wear and uneven, worn fringes
SKU: 1B1064
Why It’s Special
The appeal lies in the contrast between the open red field and its intricate geometric frame. Linked diamonds establish a strong rhythm, while rosettes soften the angular forms. The stepped arch adds a distinctive finish to this warm, richly coloured antique wool rug.
