Rug with design of a roundel enclosing a unicorn (qilin)

This rug was used either as an area rug, a wall hanging, or a prayer mat. It is woven with auspicious designs. The central medallion encircles a unicorn (qilin) and a dragon. Scattered around this are classical treasures including books, incense burners, a board game, and flower patterns. On each of the four corners is a symmetrical pattern of interlaced flowers and meanders, calling to mind heavenly clouds. The two borders are made of triangles and swastikas; both are auspicious symbols and appear widely in Chinese religious and folk art as well as commercial products.

The rug’s scheme of five colors—yellow, amber, brown, blue, and white—is characteristic of weaving from Ningxia in northwest China. During the Qing dynasty, Ningxia provided many woven works to central China.