Ontwerp voor een tapijt c. 1854 - 1864

This is a design for a carpet, made anonymously, with the dimensions of 264 by 411 millimeters. As we look at the design, consider the complex history of carpet-making. Historically, carpet weaving has been a deeply gendered craft, with women in many cultures responsible for the intricate labor of creating these textiles. But beyond the craft itself, carpets often carry rich symbolic meaning, reflecting cultural identities, religious beliefs, and social status. Here, the artist uses a complex arrangement of geometrical and botanical shapes and a rich color palette. While following a symmetrical pattern, the subtle variations in color and form suggest the hand of an individual artist, complicating the traditional narratives of mass-produced design. Consider how the design invites us to think about the relationship between tradition and innovation, individuality and collective identity. How does this carpet reflect the broader societal tensions between standardization and personal expression?