Art Nouveau carpets emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as part of the broader Art Nouveau movement, which emphasized organic forms, flowing lines, and nature-inspired motifs. These carpets often featured sinuous curves, floral patterns, and stylized plant forms that echoed the movement’s decorative principles in architecture, furniture, and the applied arts. Notable contributors to Art Nouveau textile and carpet design included Silver Studio in Britain, as well as Eugène Grasset in France, and designers across Europe combining folkloric motifs with Nouveau stylization.

This handsome vintage needlepoint example, features a soft ivory field, which serves as a wonderful backdrop to the array of vegetable-dyed colours in the design – an all-over floral pattern, rendered in tones of sage green and ochre red, with muted saffron accents; a subdued yet fresh palette, framed by a subtle plain border.

Retained in excellent condition for everyday use, its colours have taken on a gentle, charming patina with age.

An elegant needlepoint carpet, with a well-balanced composition, which would feel at home in either a classic or contemporary interior.