Rug

This abstract patterned rug was designed by Edward McKnight Kauffer (1890-1954) for the Wilton Royal Carpet Factory in 1929. The composition of overlapping shapes resembles abstract paintings of the period. McKnight Kauffer is known as a graphic artist and theatre designer. He was born and educated in the USA, where he trained as a painter. He came to England in 1914 and received important commissions for his graphic work. The Wilton Royal Carpet Factory was established in the early 18th century. In the 19th century it worked under contract for Morris and Company. During the 1930s the firm commissioned designs for carpets and rugs from a number of leading artists.

Rug · Salisbury · 1929. Hand-knotted woollen pile on a jute warp. By Edward McKnight Kauffer. Victoria and Albert Museum, London.