Antique Paisley Rug in Beige-Brown and Off-White with Blue Accents

Hand-knotted in wool from Pakistan circa 1880-1890, this antique 12×17 rug enjoys a rare variation of the paisley pattern.

Connoisseurs of the style will note that paisleys (sometimes called “boteh” or teardrop patterns) hold a special place Oriental rug history, as they were often an exhibition of the weaver’s skill in detail and repetition. This particular rug is an exemplary use of the pattern in a large size one seldom sees in this pattern, too, which likely remarks an all-the-more collectible piece. There’s a deft hand behind the color, too, one sees in the blue accents at play with the more traditional beige-brown and off-white notes—all of which play gorgeously together.

It’s a rich piece of history as much as a feat of art and craft—teeming with rustic charm and vast design applications today.