A particularly large Tuareg éseber mat or rug, dating from the 1950s and constructed from woven palm reeds and naturally dyed leather.

Measuring almost five metres in length, the rug has an impressive architectural presence. The surface is divided into broad longitudinal fields by narrow bands of dark leather, within which a series of simple cross-shaped geometric motifs are arranged. Two larger stepped motifs occupy the central field, surrounded by smaller crosses, creating a remarkably restrained and balanced composition.

Éseber mats were traditionally made by Tuareg communities of the Sahara from locally available plant fibres and leather. Rather than being woven in the conventional manner of a woollen rug, closely arranged reeds are bound together with narrow strips of leather, while additional dyed leather is used to create the decoration and strengthen the structure. Historically, these large mats had a practical role within Tuareg tent interiors rather than being conceived purely as decorative floor coverings.

Although entirely rooted in this traditional method of construction, the simplicity and abstraction of the geometric decoration give the rug a remarkably modern appearance. The combination of its enormous scale, warm natural reed and sparse dark geometric forms allows it to sit particularly well alongside twentieth-century modernist furniture without attempting to describe the object itself as Modernist.

The materials have aged beautifully. The palm reeds have developed a warm golden colour, while the naturally dyed leather ranges from deep brown and black to warmer reddish-brown tones. Viewed closely, the hand construction and subtle irregularities of the natural materials become particularly apparent.

The rug remains in excellent overall condition for its age. There are occasional small breaks and losses to individual reeds, as photographed, but no significant areas of loss. The original leather perimeter binding remains in place, with some localised fraying consistent with age and use. No restoration has been undertaken and none is currently required.

We do not have a documented provenance or more precise geographical origin for this particular example and have therefore deliberately avoided attributing it to a specific region within the wider Tuareg territories of the Sahara.

Its scale is particularly impressive. At 300 cm wide and 481 cm long, it occupies a substantial area while the restrained geometric decoration prevents it from feeling overly busy. It is a highly decorative object, but one whose appeal ultimately comes from the simplicity of its materials, construction and design.

Viewing is warmly welcomed at our West London showroom.

High-resolution photographs, detailed condition reports and video inspections are available upon request.

We offer local, national and international shipping.

Please contact us for further information or to arrange a private viewing.