This early 20th-century needlework rug represents classic English needlepoint craft. It was made by hand, using a sewing needle and wool yarn to create stitches on an open grid cotton fabric known as the “canvas.” This technique results in millions of individual stitches that provide an interesting visual and textural effect – needlepoint rugs are pile-less and have that slightly rustic character.
This 3'8" × 6'11" English needlework rug carries a central medallion of floral motifs, embraced by a floral cartouche, and a series of simple borders. The design is rendered in a rich yet muted color palette consisting of brown, pink, red, green, blue, and gold against the beige background. The gentle color palette emphasizes the idyllic character of the antique needlepoint rug.
In terms of workmanship, this antique English rug is second to none. It survived until this day in excellent condition and will serve its owners for generations without any signs of wear if maintained properly.