About this product

Early 20th Century Bessarbian Kilim

The tradition of Bessarabian kilim weaving dates to the later period of Ottoman rule over the Eastern Balkans – broadly, the territory now covered by Bulgaria and Moldova – and is known for a unique combination of designs elements from Anatolian and Caucasian carpets, as well as from 19th Century European weavings.

This early 20th Century piece is a fine example, featuring a bold graphic drawing, of wild roses and scrolling leaves.  With its soft charcoal field, with a subtle abrash (variation in tone) that adds a real sense of depth and character, and the gentle, vegetable-dyed sage green, salmon pink and ochre shades in its design, this is one of the nicest examples of its type that we have had for some time. The artist has also employed pleasantly open composition, lending the work a feeling of space and balance.