Traditional Scandinavian Flatweave Wallhanging with Mythical Horse: C1910/20 Sweden

This traditional flatweave wallhanging features a central motif, surrounded by borders with geometric patterns and smaller bird (peacock) figures. This type of animal and floral motif is characteristic of traditional Scandinavian folk art and design.

The field contains bäckahästar - a striking orange horse. Local legend told of mythological horned horses that lived in lakes, and here we see the strange beast pawing the ground, swishing its tail, its misty breath floating on a white background.

The colours are bright and joyful and the drawing piquant and stylish. The piece was woven in northern Skåne (Cröinge district?).

Hand woven in the supplementary weft float technique - skäne dukagäng drättaduk, and hand worked in natural dyed wools on linen. Dating the first quarter of the 20th century, C1910/20.

Measurements:
100 x 87cm +
8cm fringe along the bottom edge.

Condition:
As with all antique textiles, there are a few marks, some slight colour run etc. All to be expected in a textile of this antiquity.