Napoleon III Period Rug - Manufacture d'Aubusson - Circa 1860 - N° 1429

It is a superb example of the savoir-faire of the Aubusson Manufactory under the Second Empire. Around 1860, the Napoleon III style was characterized by a pronounced taste for pomp, eclecticism and a brilliant revisiting of Louis XIV and Louis XV styles.

This rug has already been cleaned by Atelier Galerie Lissier.

The rug is organized around a central circular medallion with a cream background, adorned with a bouquet of polychrome flowers (roses, daisies, field flowers).

• This heart is surrounded by a large carmine-red wreath, punctuated by white circular cartouches decorated with small flowers.

• The whole gives off an impression of relief thanks to the skilful use of color gradations (Aubusson's own shading technique).

The background of the carpet features a tobacco brown or amaranth hue, a deep color popular at the time for bringing out light motifs.

• Acanthus scrolls: Wide acanthus scrolls in shades of aqua green, cream and pale pink extend from the center to the corners, creating a flowing, baroque movement.

• Horns of plenty: On the lateral axes, stylized horns of plenty can be seen from which sprays of flowers escape. They are linked by ribbons and garlands, reinforcing the luxurious, festive aspect of the decor.

• Architectural elements: "Spearhead" motifs and scrolls can be seen, reminiscent of the woodwork and stucco of the great Parisian salons of the 19th century.

• Bordering: The whole is framed by a narrow border with a twisted ribbon motif (guilloche), which delimits the space without weighing down the composition.

• Colors: The palette is rich and harmonious. The contrast between the dark background and pastel motifs (pink, sky blue, almond green) is typical of the 1850-1870 period. The use of red brings the warmth needed for a reception room.

• Style: Napoleon III (neo-classical with rococo touches).

• Technique: Flat-weave wool, characteristic of Aubusson rugs (unlike Savonnerie rugs, which are knotted-stitch and therefore thicker).

• Visual condition: The design is of great finesse, with a perfect symmetry that testifies to the quality of the royal (now national) Aubusson manufacture.

This is a prestigious piece that was intended to adorn the floors of the homes of the haute bourgeoisie or nobility, designed to match furniture in blackened wood or Boulle marquetry.