1950s Stunning Mid-Century Anatolian “Lion & Bird” Pictorial Rug | 4'10" X 6'11"

Details

Description

The Story: A Testament to Anatolian Folk Artistry

This exceptional piece is a genuine, one-of-a-kind vintage rug hand-woven by villagers … Read more The Story: A Testament to Anatolian Folk Artistry

This exceptional piece is a genuine, one-of-a-kind vintage rug hand-woven by villagers in Kayseri, Turkey, circa the 1960s. It represents a powerful tradition of Anatolian folk art, distinct from the mass-produced vintage styles.

The central motif—a striking, allegorical depiction of a Lion and a small Bird—elevates this piece from a floor covering to a pictorial work of textile art. Above the Lion, the phrase "Maşallah Bu Aslana" ("May God Protect This Lion") is woven into the wool, an intimate, personal blessing from the original weavers that imbues the rug with profound soul and narrative depth.

Design & Aesthetic Appeal

Measuring 4 ft 10 in x 6 ft 11 in, the rug features a highly desirable low-cut, sheared pile—a treatment that reduces shedding while beautifully emphasizing the aged patina and soft, muted wool texture. This characteristic, combined with the rug's organic, vegetable-dyed colors, makes it a perfect anchor for several high-end design trends:

Wabi-Sabi / Japandi: The natural materials, subdued color palette, and appreciation for imperfection make this piece an ideal complement to minimalist, nature-focused design.

Artful Eclecticism: The unique, figurative motif creates a sophisticated focal point for a curated gallery wall or a maximalist living space.

Modern Farmhouse / Rustic Chic: The hand-spun wool and folk-art style provide warmth and authenticity to contemporary interiors.

Craftsmanship & Provenance

This rug is expertly hand-knotted with pure, lustrous wool on a durable cotton foundation. The border features a vibrant, complex medallion and vine work, executed in vivid cobalt, coral, and periwinkle, providing a spectacular contrast to the sun-bleached beige/tan field. This stylistic marriage nods toward the highly collectible Oushak or Sivas weaving traditions, valued for their open-field designs and sophisticated color use.

Condition & Readiness

The rug is in excellent vintage condition commensurate with its age. It has been meticulously and professionally cleaned, is completely free of odors, and is ready for immediate placement in a discerning collector's home.

Color Description

The palette is sophisticated and aged, appealing to current design sensibilities:
Field: A warm, neutral Creamy Beige/Sun-Washed Tan.
Primary Accent Colors (Border): Rich Cobalt Blue, Soft Sky Blue/Periwinkle, and Saturated Coral Red/Terracotta.
Motif & Details: Muted Moss Green and Faded Rust used in the lion and surrounding landscape. See less