Lotus Flower Motifs
Adapted from Chinese traditions, the lotus flower is a motif that frequently appeared in Islamic art following the Mongol invasions of the 13th century. It is generally depicted in a stylised manner set amongst scrolling vegetal designs, and can be found on a variety of media including textiles, metalwork and manuscripts. On carpets, it is usually represented on the borders in repeat form or in the field as a centralised composition.
Palmette Carpet
Mughal, Lahore
Early 17th century
Wool pile on a cotton foundation
203 x 135 cm
MIA.2013.181