Pao Tao Landscape Rug
second half 19th century, 213 x 132 cm, North East China, Inner Mongolia
The city of Pao Tao is located in the territory of Inner Mongolia near the northern Chinese border. In the late 19th century it was an important centre of carpet weaving. The rugs used the excellent Mongolian wool.
This pictorial rug depicts a wide landscape with groups of hills, trees and shrubs. Clouds are seen in the background, and there is a stretch of water in the foreground. These concise geographical topoi suffice to evoke the idea of an ideal landscape in Chinese viewers. At the centre of the rug, Shoulao – the Taoist God of Longevity – is enthroned on a raised seat, portrayed as a white-bearded old man wielding a long staff. A crane and a stag are placed at his side.
Condition
Good condition.
second half 19th century, 213 x 132 cm, North East China, Inner Mongolia
The city of Pao Tao is located in the territory of Inner Mongolia near the northern Chinese border. In the late 19th century it was an important centre of carpet weaving. The rugs used the excellent Mongolian wool.
This pictorial rug depicts a wide landscape with groups of hills, trees and shrubs. Clouds are seen in the background, and there is a stretch of water in the foreground. These concise geographical topoi suffice to evoke the idea of an ideal landscape in Chinese viewers. At the centre of the rug, Shoulao – the Taoist God of Longevity – is enthroned on a raised seat, portrayed as a white-bearded old man wielding a long staff. A crane and a stag are placed at his side.
Condition
Good condition.
