Historic Chinese carpet on sale for $4.6 million

A rare Ming dynasty carpet made in the 16th century is set to be the star item in an auction in Paris this month. It has been valued at $4.6 million, but could sell for more.

The carpet was woven for the Imperial Palace located inside the Forbidden City in Beijing. It features a pair of dragons and a seed pearl at the centre. It was originally laid on an elevated platform that supported the emperor’s throne, which was known as the “Son of Heaven” and signified that the emperor was connected to both the heavens and the earth.

Measuring 20 square metres, the carpet’s original red colour has faded to golden yellow, but this has not diminished the carpet's value. Hundreds of carpets were woven in 16th century China, but only 39 have survived. Just 16 depicting Imperial dragons are in existence – nine in the Beijing Palace Museum and seven owned by private individuals.

The Head of Oriental Rugs and Carpets at auctioneer Christies, Louise Broadhurst, said:

“Standing before such a carpet one cannot help but be transported back to the impressive palace interiors of the Ming Emperors. For this carpet to have survived in such remarkable condition is in itself a rare feat and we are honoured to offer this eminent work of art for sale.”

Carpets in Chester, Wrexham and North Wales homes are very popular and can be purchased for cost considerably less than a Ming dynasty carpet.