Early 20th century beautiful hand-woven rug from Donegal, Northwest Ireland. Donegal rugs are known for their high-quality wool, which is both durable and soft. They are hand-knotted using traditional techniques with a high level of detail in the pattern.
History of Donegal rugs- In the late 19th century, Ireland was experiencing significant social and economic changes. To try to improve upon this time of great hardship, the Donegal Industrial Fund was established in 1883. Its aim was to provide employment and revive traditional crafts in the region by capitalising on the rich wool production in the County and working with locals skilled in weaving and knitting.
A significant figure in the history of Donegal rugs was Scottish textile manufacturer, Alexander Morton. Morton was inspired by the Arts and Crafts Movement and championed the importance of craftsmanship and the beauty of handmade objects in an era increasingly dominated by industrialisation. Morton established a factory in the town of Killybegs in 1898 - Alexander Morton & Company.
The rugs are known for their colourful and detailed designs, typically incorporating motifs inspired by ancient Irish manuscripts and stone carvings, or local flowers and stylized fauna, often in geometric patterns.
This particular rug has a geometric design featuring Celtic motifs and native flowers, centred around a central crown of dark feathers.
Condition- the pile has worn in some areas more than others from concentrated foot traffic. There is some wear to the rolled edges.
Length 139cm
Width 95cm
Early 20th century beautiful hand-woven rug from Donegal, Northwest Ireland. Donegal rugs are known for their high-quality wool, which is both durable and soft. They are hand-knotted using traditional techniques with a high level of detail in the pattern.
History of Donegal rugs- In the late 19th century, Ireland was experiencing significant social and economic changes. To try to improve upon this time of great hardship, the Donegal Industrial Fund was established in 1883. Its aim was to provide employment and revive traditional crafts in the region by capitalising on the rich wool production in the County and working with locals skilled in weaving and knitting.
A significant figure in the history of Donegal rugs was Scottish textile manufacturer, Alexander Morton. Morton was inspired by the Arts and Crafts Movement and championed the importance of craftsmanship and the beauty of handmade objects in an era increasingly dominated by industrialisation. Morton established a factory in the town of Killybegs in 1898 - Alexander Morton & Company.
The rugs are known for their colourful and detailed designs, typically incorporating motifs inspired by ancient Irish manuscripts and stone carvings, or local flowers and stylized fauna, often in geometric patterns.
This particular rug has a geometric design featuring Celtic motifs and native flowers, centred around a central crown of dark feathers.
Condition- the pile has worn in some areas more than others from concentrated foot traffic. There is some wear to the rolled edges.
Length 139cm
Width 95cm