This exquisite dense and hand-knotted Baotou (sometimes spelled Paotou or Paotow) rug features a deep blue background adorned with a polychrome design, showcasing three lotus flowers, plum blossoms, a phoenix bird, and a red sun encircled by beautiful, atmospheric clouds. The phoenix is perched atop a rock. The reverse side includes a quality guarantee label from the Swedish reknowned rug importer Nessims. This elegant, classic hand-knotted rug is crafted from 100% natural silk, resulting in a stunning sheen. The rug features long, beautiful, and intact fringes on both sides. On the upper back, three cotton hangers are sewn, supporting the included wooden rod for easy wall hanging.
ABOUT BAOTOU
Baotou, located in Inner Mongolia, China is known for its unique and scenic wool rugs. Baotou, meaning “place with deer,” is also called Lucheng or “deer city.” The rugs are renowned for their bold, minimal designs and delicate lines. They were known for their dense, plush pile, and deep colors. The pictorial ones, with beautifully stylized figures from nature, were particularly coveted. Often referred to as pictorial or landscape rugs, Baotou creations resemble Chinese Shan Shui landscape paintings, depicting mountains, rivers, and water scenes. These distinctive rugs are unmatched worldwide in their artistic style.
ABOUT THE MOTIFS
The motifs are inspired by ancient traditions (Chinese, Taoist, and Buddhist) and each decorative element holds symbolic significance.
-The phoenix and dragons are regarded as Chinese unicorns and are rare in Baotou rugs. They are said to harm no living beings, even avoiding crushing the grass beneath them. Historically, it was believed that the phoenix only descended to Earth during times of peace and harmony. Famous in the West as an imperial emblem since the Ming Dynasty, the phoenix bird symbolizes the Emperor and Empress. It is also one of China's four great supernatural animals, alongside the dragon, tiger, and tortoise. The phoenix bird rules the southern quadrant and is associated with the sun. It is known in Mandarin Chinese as Fenghuang, and is among the most treasured of Chinese symbols, representing good luck, prosperity and elegance.
-Plum blossoms, known for their cold resistance, bloom during the coldest part of the year, representing delicate yet resilient beauty. Blooming through ice, they symbolize inner beauty, pureness, and modesty displayed in adverse conditions.
-Peony means prosperity and wealth.
-Clouds are perceived as an auspicious sign (e.g. an omen of peace), a symbol of Heaven, and the expression of the Will of Heaven.
Thanks to its silk pile, this rug boasts an incredible sheen and luxurious quality, with a softness akin to that of a puppy.
