Hand-Painted Rug Design Study, Floral Boarder

A charming and highly unusual hand-painted rug design sample, dating to approximately the 1920s, featuring an elaborate floral and foliate border in shades of aqua, blue, cream, taupe, and muted brown. The design is carefully rendered on a gridded ground, with individual details suggesting how the pattern and color palette would translate into a finished textile.

These small-scale studies were created as design and color references for planning custom rugs, allowing designers and clients to consider the proposed pattern, scale, and palette before committing to the finished floor covering. The painstakingly rendered design offers a fascinating glimpse into the decorative process behind bespoke rugs of the period. Presented beneath a wide mat and housed in a beautifully figured tiger maple frame, it is equally compelling today as a piece of decorative design.

Origin: Early 20th century, c. 1920s.
Material: Hand-painted paper, mat, glass, tiger maple frame.
Dimensions: 19.25" L x 11" W.
Condition: Good antique condition. The paper displays minor age-related fading, toning, surface wear, and imperfections consistent with its age. The mat and frame show scattered signs of age and wear, including minor marks and nicks. Glazing is retained. Frame in excellent condition.