5012 – 194 × 145 cm Wool pile on cotton foundation, natural dyes | Late 19th century
You can almost hear the lionesses roaring from the corners of this antique Malayer rug, confined but furious, while peahens flutter anxiously. In contrast, lions and peacocks stride boldly across the open field. Such tension could be read as a quiet protest—a woman’s powerful expression against discrimination more than 150 years ago in a deeply conservative world.
Some village rugs carry more than beauty—they carry stories, symbols, emotions woven across time. This extraordinary Malayer is a prime example. The weaver dared to embed personal and sociological commentary into her creation, audaciously confronting themes of injustice and inequality through her artistry.
Highly collectible, this piece is both decorative and deeply meaningful. The compact wool knots set against cotton warps reveal exceptional technique and care, preserved in pristine condition, making this rug a true presence that enriches interior spaces and invites conversation.
