Antique Chinese Pictorial Rug, Bai Niao Chao Feng, Birds Saluting the Phoenix

According to the legend, the phoenix was once an ordinary bird that was very hard working, collecting food each day from morning till night. Then, one year, a drought left the rest of the forest birds without food until the phoenix shared its stored goods, giving something to eat to each and every other bird. To thank the phoenix, the other birds each took a feather from their body and assembled them into a beautiful coat, which they presented to the phoenix. They also elected the phoenix king of all birds. From then on, every year on the phoenix’s birthday, birds from all-over the world fly to greet the phoenix and offer gratitude. Over time, this legend has become associated with the notion that good leadership can bring prosperity to everyone, as well as the idea that anyone can gain greatness and honor through hard work and foresight.

In this particular piece, the legend is represented by two phoenixes surrounded by a variety of birds set among a beautiful landscape of pine trees, parasol trees, plum flowers, and other botanical motifs. The lovely main border features cartouches with a variety of animal motifs—including rabbits, goats, dogs, and horses—set against a patchwork of diamond lattices, scales, fretwork and tree motifs. The inner guard border features an ancient fret Meander design called leiwen or ‘thunder pattern’. This pattern interlaces the wan symbol, a Chinese character meaning ‘ten thousand’, with a winding key design that symbolizes long life and never-ending joy. The color palette is classically Chinese, composed of harmonizing blues, creams, and grays, splashed with touches of pink for good measure. With its rich symbolism, cultural significance, gorgeous scenery and Fine detailing, this Chinese Baotou rug would bring a sense of opulence, history and tranquility to any interior.

Perfect for living room, front room, dining room, bedroom, lounge, loft, parlor, great room, state room, drawing room, office, studio, library, or study and pairs beautifully with canton style furniture. Well-suited for a wide range of interior styles: Traditional, Transitional, Eclectic, Modern, Neoclassical, Georgian, Regency, Empire, Victorian, Arts & Crafts, Craftsman, Aesthetic Movement, Edwardian, Art Nouveau, Jazz Age, Art Deco, Hollywood Regency, Mid-Century Modern, English Country, French Provincial, Bohemian, Boho Chic, chinoiserie, Asian Antique, Asian Modern, Japanese, Ming, Qing and Republic Period.

Rendered in variegated shades of navy blue, royal blue, cobalt, indigo, ink blue, cerulean, sky blue, terra cotta, burnt orange, coral, gray, greige, taupe, camel, and peach with pink abrash with other accent colors.
Abrash. Desirable Age Wear. Low Pile in Some Areas.
Hand knotted wool.
Made in China.
Measures: 06’00 x 11’06.
Date: 1910s. Early 20th Century.