Vintage Bessarabian Kilim, Grand Rose Floral Bouquets Over Black - Rug & Kilim

Details

Description

Handwoven in wool and originating circa 1950-1960, this gorgeous 7x8 vintage Bessarabian Kilim is a particularly special curation from Rug … Read more Handwoven in wool and originating circa 1950-1960, this gorgeous 7x8 vintage Bessarabian Kilim is a particularly special curation from Rug & Kilim’s European flatweave collections—a rich and elegant transitional piece among few surviving pieces of such condition from this weaving tradition, and even fewer with the hallmarks of Moldovan design influence that capture the rustic, old-world country charm of Eastern European weaving so unique to this lineage.

On the Design:

This piece enjoys a rich midnight black and deep espresso brown ground, which provides a dramatic, velvet-like stage for the brilliant botanical imagery to flourish in high relief. The central field features a lavish, overflowing bouquet of roses and variegated blossoms, rendered with a painterly precision that evokes the feel of a sun-drenched cottage garden.

This lush centerpiece is surrounded by a continuous vine scroll border of repeating floral sprays, creating a harmonious dialogue between the structured perimeter and the wild, organic heart of the rug.

The history of this design is as rich as its palette; Bessarabian kilims are storied artifacts originating from the borderlands of Moldova, Ukraine, Romania, and even parts of modern-day Russia among the handful of countries once a part of Bessarabia. Unlike the rigid geometric tribal rugs of the East, these flatweaves were deeply influenced by French Savonnerie and Aubusson aesthetics.

As the Russian and Eastern European aristocracy of the 19th century sought to replicate Parisian floral elegance in their country estates, local weavers adapted these imperial "Millefleurs" patterns into a unique folk-art language. This piece represents the mid-century evolution of that legacy—a meticulously crafted poem in wool that bridges the gap between peasant handicraft and aristocratic sophistication.

Admirers of the craft will appreciate what an exceptional find this grand bouquet style is. There is a smart balance of color that is both quintessential to the Bessarabian tradition and exemplary of it, as the vibrant pinks, deep reds, and soft sage greens enjoy such a natural complement to the dark, moody undertones. Keen eyes for detail will further admire the impressionistic shading and the handsome, tasteful abrash—a gentle color variation—that only a true mid-century classic can enjoy.

Condition:

This Vintage Bessarabian Kilim enjoys good condition for its age and origin. See less