Anatolia, the western region of Turkey where Sivas carpets originate, has a long-standing rug-weaving tradition, dating at least as far back as the 13th Century. As the explorer Marco Polo once wrote, ‘Here they make the most beautiful silks and carpets, and in the most beautiful colours.’ These carpets, among the first to reach the European market in the Early Modern era, can be spotted in many of the paintings of the Old Masters, including those of Holbein, Vermeer, and Reubens.

This fine early 20th Century example features a muted colour palette, with scrolling floral motifs inspired by earlier 18th and 19th Century Persian weavings; its mellow vegetable-dyed tones include ivory, chestnut and elephant grey set against a dusky pink ground, framed by a border of good proportions.

Retained in very good condition for everyday use, with thin pile but even – its colours have taken on a characterful age-related patina.

An understated yet refined weaving, to compliment a tasteful setting.