Barbro Nilsson carpet

This rare flatwoven rug titled Salerno gul was designed by Barbro Nilsson for Märta Måås-Fjetterström AB in 1948. The design was originally created for the chapel of Salerno in Italy and reflects Nilsson’s refined interpretation of geometric order and tonal harmony, hallmarks of her work within the Swedish textile tradition. Nilsson, one of Sweden’s most respected textile artists, succeeded Märta Måås-Fjetterström as artistic director in 1942 and continued to develop the workshop’s legacy through a modernist yet deeply artisanal approach.

The rug is executed in shades of golden yellow with accents in white, brown, and grey. The pattern is characterized by symmetrical, stepped geometric motifs arranged in a rhythmic grid structure. The border features alternating rectangular fields that frame the composition, providing balance to the strong central axis. The handwoven wool texture creates subtle tonal variations across the surface, enhancing the vibrancy of the yellow field.

The piece remains in excellent vintage condition with only minor signs of age and use consistent with careful preservation. The craftsmanship and integrity of the weave are fully intact, and the colors retain their richness and depth. Signed BN in the weave, confirming the work of Barbro Nilsson and production by Märta Måås-Fjetterström AB in Båstad, Sweden.

This textile represents the Scandinavian mid-century period at its finest, combining natural materials, artisanal technique, and restrained modernist aesthetics. Nilsson’s works from the 1940s and 1950s are considered among the most accomplished Swedish flatweaves, widely collected for their balance of structure and warmth.

Dimensions: 210 × 150 cm (82.7 × 59.1 inches).