A Donegal carpet, After a design by Gavin Morton and G.K. Robertson, Ireland,

Pile ranges from one-sixth of an inch to knot heads and foundation in places. Some oxidized browns. There are extensive areas of re-weaving which are well executed but have faded and are visible in the catalogue illustration. Reweaves are, but not limited to the following areas: an approximately ten by sixty inch section to the upper right border, an approximately thirty by seventy inch rewoven fireplace section to the top center border into the field, an approximately two by twelve inch section to the upper left, two approximately three by sixty inch sections that run from either side into the center, an approximately twelve by seventy inch section to middle of right border, a section of approximately seventy by 200 inches to the lower middle of the field where three irregular sections converge. Scattered re-piling to center of field. A partially rewoven guard border, possibly over cast sides and ends secured with a binding stitch. Emblematic design, warm tones.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The carpet offered here illustrates the popularity of Turkish, particularly Oushak, carpets in Europe in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Oushak rugs and carpets were among the most sought-after commodities imported from the Ottoman Empire and their designs influenced many contemporaneous craftsmen in the west. Morton, Robinson and Voysey were among the European artists finding inspiration in Turkish carpets and they often mixed their own Gothicizing designs with oriental elements. The design of the present lot is among those works that successfully fuse the western with the eastern, creating a unique piece that is unmistakably 'Arts & Crafts.' For carpets with a similar design, please refer to Malcolm Haslam, Arts & Crafts Carpets, London, 1991, figs. 67, 68, 69 and 70. A Donegal carpet with nearly identical design but with a different color palette was sold Sotheby's New York, December 14, 1995, lot 241. Another similar piece was offered Sotheby's New York, December 3, 2002, lot 223.