INDIA, GUJARAT, AHMEDABAD, LATE 19TH - EARLY 20TH CENTURY

The present, almost square, floorspread features a central medallion set against a background of elephants and birds. Surrounding this are five borders concentrically radiating towards the edges, adorned with repeated motifs of human figures, mystical creatures and geometric and botanical elements. Each border is separated by a thin band of stylised palmette motifs and interlocking geometric patterns. The colour scheme follows the style of Gujarati textiles from the period, dominated by shades of red and black. The format and arrangement of this piece distinguish Gujarati floorspreads from other Indian floor textiles, where Persian influence is more prevalent.