"Piilipuu"
"Willow Tree" Red Rya Rug
Irja Mikkola
Finland, 1950s

Description:

A deep-piled rya rug by Finnish textile artist, Irja Mikkola. Likely made between 1950-1970. 

This richly-coloured rya rug was designed by Finnish textile artist, Irja Mikkola, for the longstanding craft organisation, the "Friends of Finnish Crafts", during the later half of the 20th century. The group was founded in 1879, making it one of the oldest design organisations in Finland, and was established to not just produce but promote this distinctive Nordic craft. 

Rya rugs occupy an important place in Finnish textile design. With roots in Finland's coastline during the 15th century, when they were used by fishermen for warmth, the medium enjoyed a revival in the 20th century with complex, colourful graphic patterns becoming a national hallmark for the craft. 

The rug is in good vintage condition and retains its original label on the reverse. The rug also has a channel through which a pole can be threaded to aid the install of the piece of the wall. 

Specifications:

Made for "Friends of Finnish Crafts"/ "Suomen Käsityön Ystävät". 

Designer: Irja Mikkola

Length: 160cm

Width: 120 cm