Vintage Slovenian Abstract Tapestry by Janez Bernik in Earthy Tones - Rug & Kilim

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Description

Handwoven in wool, this 7x10 vintage Slovenian tapestry from circa 1967 is a striking example of mid-century European abstract textile … Read more Handwoven in wool, this 7x10 vintage Slovenian tapestry from circa 1967 is a striking example of mid-century European abstract textile art. The piece features a restrained, painterly composition and retains a handwritten reverse label detailing the maker and specifications.

On the Design:

Janez Bernik was an internationally acclaimed Slovenian painter, printmaker, sculptor, illustrator and poet, and one of the most outstanding Yugoslav artists of the post-war era. Trained at the Academy of Fine Arts in Ljubljana under Maksim Sedej, and in printmaking under Božidar Jakac and Riko Debenjak, he worked in 1958 in the Paris graphic studio of Johnny Friedlaender, and went on to win the highest honours of the international biennale circuit; First Prize at the 1962 Tokyo Print Biennale and First Prize for Engraving at the 1965 São Paulo Bienal. Across a career spanning more than sixty solo exhibitions in Ljubljana, Milan, Paris, Berlin, New York and Venice, he received the Prešeren Prize, the Herder Prize, and the highest state decoration of the Republic of Slovenia. His work is held in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art, and he was elected a full member of the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts.

Woven in 1967, 3/II belongs to the most prized phase of Bernik's mature practice. It was in precisely these years that the artist produced his celebrated paintings and engravings of mysterious, indecipherable inscriptions evocative of ancient documents; abstract fields built upon the unspoiled texture of the earth. This tapestry embraces a minimalist, abstract composition defined by broad, gestural forms and tonal contrast. The upper field is rendered in a muted beige ground, softly variegated to create depth and texture, while the lower half introduces a series of bold, organic shapes in deep brown and black. These forms appear almost sculptural, rising from the base like abstracted monoliths or landscape elements. Their irregular edges and subtle tonal shifts lend the composition a sense of movement and spontaneity, evoking the influence of mid-century abstract expressionism.

A small but striking area of lighter tone near the lower center introduces contrast, accented by hints of orange and graphic markings that break the otherwise subdued palette. This detail adds visual tension and draws the eye, grounding the composition within its abstract narrative. The palette is earthy and refined, beige, charcoal, deep brown, and touches of warm orange—offering versatility while maintaining a strong artistic presence. The overall effect is both contemplative and architectural, making it ideal as a wall hanging or a statement textile in modern interiors.

Condition:

This vintage Slovenian Rug enjoys good condition for its age and origin – ideally intended for use in wall-hanging projects. See less