The history of English carpetweaving begins around the 16th Century, but experienced a real renaissance during the mid 19th Century, incorporating a vast array of new colours and styles, often drawn from folk patterns, in part due to the impact of the burgeoning Arts and Crafts movement, pioneered in Britain by figures like William Morris and C.F.A. Voysey. Pieces like this, from the Axminster company, can be found in royal estates and historic homes across Britain and Europe.

This highly unusual example, created at the beginning of the 20th Century, borrows its design from earlier Neoclassical patterns like those of Robert Adam, employs a dynamic all-over grand-scale floral motif, with each drawing in the centre creatively repeated in a variety of colours across the field. The palette in the drawing – with soft, earthy tones of terracotta, sage green, camel, and sky blue, set against a neutral ground – is at diverse and yet well-balanced enough to feel understated and subtle, framed by a decorative border of great proportions.

Retained in very good condition for everyday use, its colours have taken on a wonderful patina, with good pile throughout. There has been some minor age related restoration, finished to a high standard.

A striking statement piece, and surely one of the most unusual and creative European weavings we have come across in some time.