This 7x8 antique Bessarabian rug is a truly one-of-a-kind, rich and exciting new collectible from Rug & Kilim’s collection—a treasure even among the most rare siblings of its provenance, hand-knotted in wool and originating from Moldovacirca 1850-1860. On the DesignDesigners and admirers of the craft alike will particularly appreciate this rug’s outstanding design—unlike any other we’ve seen in Bessarabian carpets, let alone European weaving traditions, and all-the-more impressive considering its level of love, detail, and overall sophistication. Made with meticulous craftsmanship, the piece showcases a commanding central medallion framed by layers of ornate floral borders that suggest Persian garden paradise reimagined through European sensibilities—a hallmark of traditional Bessarabian design. Much more rare is the repetition of monkey figurals throughout these intricate borders, both an unusual and particularly unique choice even for this provenance known for its more eclectic pieces (and sometimes favoring pictorials more than other European rugs of this bucolic nature). There’s a fabulous sense of movement in the play of such a distinct marching monkey motif and such a traditional sense of repetition that distinguishes this piece from any of its kind, yet so exemplary of the principals of handmade rugs of its provenance for marrying country charm with elegance and grandeur. Further to the keen eye, the ivory spandrel zones showcase dense floral tapestries where roses, carnations, and exotic blooms create layered visual depth through sophisticated color modulation. Coral, sage, burgundy, and golden accents achieve chromatic harmony through careful tonal relationships that suggest oil painting translated into textile medium. Admirers of the craft will appreciate this as a particularly expressive work among Bessarabian rugs, with very finely woven drawings of exceptional quality. The Moldovan provenance ensures authenticity that resonates with sophisticated high-end clients who appreciate the historical significance of Bessarabian workshops and their distinctive position bridging Eastern and Western European decorative traditions in luxury cultural contexts.Condition: This antique Bessarabian rug further enjoys good condition for its age and origin with some slight wear and tear—another rare trait in this exceptional find among its kind left today, ideal for wall-hanging purposes. Repair and restoration for an additional fee—inquire for a quote
"Rug & Kilim is my go to resource for rugs. Their selection is wide and deep, and Josh’s eye for antique pieces is extraordinary. I always walk away with great pieces, and they are a pleasure to collaborate with. They’ve been my trusted partner on projects for years."
— Ann Wolf, Wolf Holden Design Studio
The Rug & Kilim Standard
The Rug & Kilim Standard
A standard since our inception upheld across every acquisition, transaction, and delivery.
45+ Year Old Institution
More than four decades of expertise and stewardship, under the leadership of our Principal, Jahanshah "Josh" Nazmiyal.
Favorable Return Policy
Our return policy is 48 hours upon receipt allowing you to confirm the purchase in your space with confidence.
Product Warranty
Each rug is hand selected or produced through the most reputable sources under the direct supervision of our Principal.
Trusted Global Delivery
Reliable worldwide delivery handled with care, precision and constant communication.
Exceptional Support
Attentive, knowledgeable guidance before and after purchase from our dedicated team of specialists.
Long Term Care
We stand behind every piece we place and remain a resource to our clients for the lifetime of their collection.
The R&K Image Studio is a new visual workspace designed to present the Rug & Kilim collection
with clarity, restraint, and precision — in your space or any space you imagine.
This tool allows you to view, refine, and prepare imagery drawn directly from the pieces in our
archive. They can be visualized cleanly, isolated thoughtfully, and adjusted for presentations,
proposals, and private viewings, without altering the integrity of the original work.
Step 1Describe or upload your space, or use a preset
This 7x8 antique Bessarabian rug is a truly one-of-a-kind, rich and exciting new collectible from Rug & Kilim’s collection—a treasure even among the most rare siblings of its provenance, hand-knotted in wool and originating from Moldovacirca 1850-1860. On the DesignDesigners and admirers of the craft alike will particularly appreciate this rug’s outstanding design—unlike any other we’ve seen in Bessarabian carpets, let alone European weaving traditions, and all-the-more impressive considering its level of love, detail, and overall sophistication. Made with meticulous craftsmanship, the piece showcases a commanding central medallion framed by layers of ornate floral borders that suggest Persian garden paradise reimagined through European sensibilities—a hallmark of traditional Bessarabian design. Much more rare is the repetition of monkey figurals throughout these intricate borders, both an unusual and particularly unique choice even for this provenance known for its more eclectic pieces (and sometimes favoring pictorials more than other European rugs of this bucolic nature). There’s a fabulous sense of movement in the play of such a distinct marching monkey motif and such a traditional sense of repetition that distinguishes this piece from any of its kind, yet so exemplary of the principals of handmade rugs of its provenance for marrying country charm with elegance and grandeur. Further to the keen eye, the ivory spandrel zones showcase dense floral tapestries where roses, carnations, and exotic blooms create layered visual depth through sophisticated color modulation. Coral, sage, burgundy, and golden accents achieve chromatic harmony through careful tonal relationships that suggest oil painting translated into textile medium. Admirers of the craft will appreciate this as a particularly expressive work among Bessarabian rugs, with very finely woven drawings of exceptional quality. The Moldovan provenance ensures authenticity that resonates with sophisticated high-end clients who appreciate the historical significance of Bessarabian workshops and their distinctive position bridging Eastern and Western European decorative traditions in luxury cultural contexts.Condition: This antique Bessarabian rug further enjoys good condition for its age and origin with some slight wear and tear—another rare trait in this exceptional find among its kind left today, ideal for wall-hanging purposes. Repair and restoration for an additional fee—inquire for a quote
"For years, R&K has been a favorite source for Kemble Interiors when we need antique, vintage, and custom designed rugs. Their inventory is deep and well displayed online and working in person is always such a pleasure too!"
— Celerie Kemble, Kemble Interiors
The Rug & Kilim Standard
The Rug & Kilim Standard
A standard since our inception upheld across every acquisition, transaction, and delivery.
45+ Year Old Institution
More than four decades of expertise and stewardship, under the leadership of our Principal, Jahanshah "Josh" Nazmiyal.
Favorable Return Policy
Our return policy is 48 hours upon receipt allowing you to confirm the purchase in your space with confidence.
Product Warranty
Each rug is hand selected or produced through the most reputable sources under the direct supervision of our Principal.
Trusted Global Delivery
Reliable worldwide delivery handled with care, precision and constant communication.
Exceptional Support
Attentive, knowledgeable guidance before and after purchase from our dedicated team of specialists.
Long Term Care
We stand behind every piece we place and remain a resource to our clients for the lifetime of their collection.
