Barbro Nilsson carpet

This rare and richly detailed carpet, Nejlikan röd (“The Red Carnation”), was designed by Barbro Nilsson in 1950 and produced by the prestigious Märta Måås-Fjetterström AB in Båstad, Sweden. As a standout example of mid-century Scandinavian textile design, the piece blends folk-inspired motifs with modernist structure and color theory, embodying the design ethos of post-war Sweden.

The composition of Nejlikan röd centers on a series of symmetrical, stylized carnations and geometric shapes, woven in a rhythmic, repeating pattern that creates a dynamic interplay between structure and ornament. The dominant palette features warm shades of red, orange, and burgundy—colors that evoke both the richness of nature and the bold expressiveness of Scandinavian textile tradition. These saturated hues are offset by accents in black, white, and muted earthy tones, which lend contrast and depth to the composition.

Framing the central motif is a distinctive striped border, constructed with alternating bands of color. This frame adds visual weight and definition, emphasizing the overall geometry and enhancing the carpet’s architectural presence. The balance between central imagery and border patterning exemplifies Nilsson’s refined compositional sense and her ability to integrate decorative and structural elements harmoniously.

The carpet is handwoven from high-quality wool, using traditional flat-weaving techniques practiced at MMF’s Båstad atelier. The surface displays a fine, tight weave with subtle variations in texture and tone, characteristic of hand-crafted pieces and reflective of the natural aging of wool fibers. The patina of the material enhances its visual and tactile richness, while also affirming its authenticity and age.

The edges are finished with meticulously braided fringes, reinforcing the artisanal quality of the piece and contributing to its historic integrity. In one corner, the woven initials “AB MMF” (Aktiebolaget Märta Måås-Fjetterström) confirm its origin, in accordance with the workshop’s tradition of marking their pieces. This monogram, along with the workshop’s records and the included certificate of authenticity, situates the carpet firmly within the legacy of one of Sweden’s most important design institutions.

Measuring 323 cm in width and 248 cm in depth (approximately 127 x 98 inches), Nejlikan röd is a substantial textile suitable for prominent display in living rooms, halls, or cultural spaces. Its scale and visual rhythm ensure a commanding presence while retaining the warmth and intimacy typical of Scandinavian design.

Barbro Nilsson (1899–1983) was a master weaver and one of the most influential Swedish textile artists of the 20th century. Appointed artistic director of Märta Måås-Fjetterström AB in 1942, she carried forward the founder’s legacy while introducing her own modernist approach to pattern, color, and structure. Her work often drew on nature, folklore, and architecture, combining deep technical knowledge with expressive visual languages. Nejlikan röd is a key example of her mature style, combining expressive geometry with poetic color harmonies.

This carpet, having been professionally restored by the original workshop, retains its full aesthetic and structural integrity. The inclusion of the restoration certificate further confirms its provenance and value, making it not only a decorative object but also a collectible work of Swedish design heritage. As a textile, it stands at the intersection of art and function, combining historical continuity, exceptional craftsmanship, and enduring visual appeal.