This rug was patterned after an imported example from Asia Minor.  The central field depicts a garden resplendent with fountains, vases of flowers, and exotic trees, as well as birds, deer, and lions.

Spanish rugs represent one of the oldest extant groups of such textiles (1985.R.90, 1985.R.94).

Spanish rugs represent one of the oldest extant groups of such textiles (1985.R.90, 1985.R.93).

Wendy and Emery Reves's interest in textiles was wide ranging and one of their most distinguished accomplishments, in terms of their textile collection, was in the area of rugs. In total, the Reveses assembled a fine group of approximately thirty rugs during the 1960s and 1970s.

This rug is part of a large group inspired by Persian medallion rugs. As with many of the imported prototypes, this example contains animal motifs, including birds and leopards. Traditionally attributed to Portugal, this group may contain some rugs of Spanish origin. Regardless of their exact origin, the rugs are embroidered rather than woven.

Wide borders enclosing squares are interrupted by octagons and lozenges. Single male figures stand within each octagon, their arms transformed into arrowheaded scarfs, Each square has a floral center and a man either on or behind a serrated goat in each corner.

Wendy and Emery Reves's interest in textiles was wide ranging and one of their most distinguished accomplishments, in terms of their textile collection, was in the area of rugs. In total, the Reveses assembled a fine group of approximately thirty rugs during the 1960s and 1970s.

Wendy and Emery Reves's interest in textiles was wide ranging and one of their most distinguished accomplishments, in terms of their textile collection, was in the area of rugs. In total, the Reveses assembled a fine group of approximately thirty rugs during the 1960s and 1970s.

Turkey has had an important weaving industry for centuries. In the 13th century, Marco Polo traveled through the region and praised its rugs as the most beautiful in the world. By the 15th century, traders were importing Turkish rugs into Europe, where they were extremely expensive and valued as symbols of high rank.