Antique Bessarabian Rug, Monkey Pictorials and Floral Medallion - Rug & Kilim

Details

Description

This 7x8 antique Bessarabian rug is a truly one-of-a-kind, rich and exciting new collectible from Rug & Kilim’s collection—a treasure … Read more 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 Moldova circa 1850-1860.

On the Design

Designers 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. See less