Rugs of Holland

A thriving trade with the Orient from early times accounts for the large number of Oriental rugs that have always been used in Holland. She has one well-known factory, founded in the late eighteenth century to make hand-knotted rugs.

The fabric is strong, with a pebbly texture, but 19th Century designs had no great distinction. Most of them were bastard Oriental patterns; a few showed French influence of the Second Empire.

All over Europe, as in England, the art of needlework was a large part of every gentlewoman's decidedly limited education. Undoubtedly a good many rugs were embroidered, as well as bed curtains and chair and table covers.

Very few have survived the years. I have seen only one French gros point rug. Its age is uncertain, but its design of repeating circles enclosing flowers is simple and charming.