Tapis Européen Design Agra Inde

This is an antique European Tetex rug woven in Germany in the first quarter of the 20th century, circa 1920s.
Also called a "Janus" rug according to the lily stitch weaving method. Wool rug on cotton base.

This beautiful rug with a typical Agra rug design has an elegant character and the quality that the weavers of this ancient city are known for. Agra is a city best known for the famous Taj Mahal. However, since the 16th century, it has also been known as a center of carpet production. Agra rugs have a grand, elegant and refined style. Many of the designs resemble popular designs found in Persian rugs, which is an interesting part of their history.

Before the 16th century, only a few rugs were produced in Agra. However, when the Mughal emperors came to power, the designs adopted a more Persian style. This is because the early Mughal emperors were exiled to Persia and spent some time there. They saw the wealth and prosperity that came from the Persian carpet weaving industry. Upon returning to India, they brought the patterns and designs back home to use in their own workshops. However, over time, Agra carpets developed their own distinctive style.

They have always incorporated traditional Persian patterns. They have only added a few features that set them apart. Carpets from India tend to have denser patterns than traditional Persian carpets. This beautiful carpet has an all-over pattern and uses cloud bands to create graceful lines and sweeping shapes. Agra weavers also developed their own sensitivity to color, and while they have always used the bright reds found in Persian carpets, they tend to combine them with earthy colors.

You can find in some prestigious auction rooms (this same design) the soaring prices on Agra Indian carpets from the 17th to the 19th century.

The history of Tetex carpet..
Europeans love to have Persian and other oriental carpets in their home or office, that is why Persian carpets have always been in high demand in Europe.
During the 1920s and 1930s, Persian and Caucasian carpets were so popular and weavers from Persia and the Caucasus could not keep up with the orders from Western merchants. So some of the merchants decided to manufacture the Persian and Caucasian design in Europe, some started in Germany which is called Tetex and some were made in Austria with another technique.

Dimensions: 320x247 cm
Condition: Very good condition