Ming Imperial Dragon Carpet

Description:

Ming Imperial Dragon Carpet, China, c. 1600, forward-facing dragon wrapped around a flaming pearl floating on a field of clouds, 11 ft. 4 in. x 11 ft. 11 in.


Bidding: Only pre-approved customers may participate. Bidders are required to contact the accounting department prior to bidding at online@skinnerinc.com or 508-970-3279 to register.

Note: This piece belongs to a group of rugs believed to have been woven for the Imperial Palace in Beijing during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). Though it is difficult to offer a precise date for the carpet, stylistic likenesses to textiles in the tomb of the emperor Wanli (1573-1620) suggest a date of the late 16th or early 17th century. Wool pile on a foundation of silk warps and cotton wefts. Literature: Hali, no. 109, London 2020.
The Jim Dixon Collection, to benefit the Krishnamurti Foundation of America
Estimate $200,000-300,000

Though technically a fragment, the carpet is probably only missing its borders and is in good condition for its age. There is some restoration throughout the field which is high quality, but the colors don't always match the original colors perfectly.


Items may have wear and tear, imperfections, or the effects of aging. Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.

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