This dhurrie showcases the flexible contemporary sensibility of mid-century and late art deco rugs from India.
Its composition is minimal: A broad, uninterrupted field in a soft, warm taupe provides a calm visual ground, framed by a substantial border in a pleasant aubergine tone. The border colors shift subtly through gentle abrash (i.e., desirable natural variations in the dye intensity) that introduces movement and tonal variation, reading in places as eggplant, deep plum, or an inky wine. Sun exposure has further mellowed the palette and harmonized the colors.
In terms of composition, the rug falls between the geometric compositions of earlier art deco rugs produced for the homes of noblemen and princely estates and the later the mid-century designs produced for a wider market.
Hand-woven in a densely packed cotton on a cotton foundation, the rug is made of several ply thickness. Its robust selvedge cord consists of yarns in a rainbow of colors, an Indian response to the coveted haft-rang silk warps of antique rugs of the Persian Senneh tradition.
Condition and Use
Given its scale and restrained design, the rug is suitable for use in a wide range of interior spaces. It is especially well-suited to anchor a great room, loft, gallery space, office, or intimate retail space, where its open field allows for flexible furniture placement without visual congestion.
The rug is in good overall condition and is structurally sound, ready for floor use. Minor scattered pulls are visible throughout, consistent with age and use. The field contains small areas of older reweaving, executed to a high standard and with minimal impact on the design. A few localized discolorations are present. The reverse shows minor fading along a fold line from storage. Overall, the rug presents attractively, with wear commensurate with its age that contributes to its character. NB: Wrinkles will fall out of the cotton with ordinary use.
