Antique Chinese Rug, Baotou-late 19th Century - 190 X 160 Cm - "galerie Sardje"

Elegant antique Chinese rug from the late 19th century, featuring a remarkable floral decoration on a shaded blue background. The central field is adorned with a flowery circular medallion, surrounded by rich bouquets in the spandrels. The whole is framed by a beautiful border with a Greek motif, typical of Chinese production of this period.

Its refined palette of blues and whites gives it a particularly seductive decorative presence, ideal in a classic, Art Deco or contemporary interior.

Condition:
Carpet sold in its original condition. Very dusty, in need of complete cleaning. Presents several old restorations notably in the border and field. Despite these imperfections, it retains strong decorative power and authentic charm.

Dimensions: 190 x 160 cm
Origine: China
Era: Late 19th century
Material: Hand-knotted wool

History:

The Baotou carpets (or Pao-tou in the old transcription) are traditional Chinese rugs woven in the town of Baotou in Inner Mongolia. They are among the Chinese rugs most sought after by collectors for their wool quality and pictorial motifs.

The Baotou region is located in the great steppes of Inner Mongolia, a favorable area for sheep breeding. Thanks to the abundance of quality wool, the art of carpet-making developed here from the XIXᵉ century onwards. According to local sources, weaving skills were introduced during the Tongzhi period of the Qing dynasty (circa 1862-1874) by craftsmen from neighboring Ningxia;

Golden age and decline

The golden age of Baotou carpets was between the end of the XIXᵉ century and the 1930s. Pieces from this period were exported to Europe and America, where they were appreciated for their Art Deco style and originality. After the political upheavals of the mid-20ᵉ century and the industrialization of the region, traditional craft production declined sharply. Today, old Baotou rugs are sought after on the antiques market