Antique Chinese Ningxia Pillar Rug 03'05 x 14'01. The interplay between the piece’s various decorative elements gives the composition a great deal of movement and visual interest while also creating a strong sense of story in this hand-knotted wool antique Chinese Ningxia pillar carpet runner with a dragon pictorial. Seen as possessing unrivaled power, strength, and nobility, the dragon, known in Mandarin Chinese as “Kuilong,” is amongst the most beloved symbols in Chinese culture. The mythical beast was once thought to have the power to control the elements and climactic changes such as floods, drought, rain, thunder and lightning. In this particular antique Chinese rug, the serpentine dragon coils around the piece with its body. As the dragon is seen to reside in the heavens, several Ruyi clouds and ribbon-like cloud bands are scattered throughout the composition. Dragons are often depicted as chasing after luminous flaming pearls, which are thought to represent wisdom and enlightenment. Vase motifs decorate the field amongst the clouds. Aside from the rich cultural symbolism attached to each image, the array of Ruyi clouds, creatures and objects are all beautifully rendered in a marvelous color palette. The expert use of shading gives a great deal of dimension and a naturalistic appearance to the fantastic motifs, creating a truly outstanding design with undeniable beauty. With its depth of meaning, lush color palette, and well-harmonized composition, this lavish antique Chinese Art Deco style runner would be a truly stunning addition to any interior. Rendered in variegates shades of brown, tan, taupe, sand, ecru, camel, coffee, orange, greige, pale rose, baby blue, sage, and black with other accent colors. Desirable Age Wear. Abrash. Hand-knotted wool. Made in China. Measures: 03'05 x 14'01.