Barbro Nilsson carpet

Nejlikan Grön is one of the most sought-after and monumental carpet designs by Barbro Nilsson, woven by AB Märta Måås-Fjetterström in Båstad, Sweden. This exceptionally large example, dating from around 1950, measures an impressive 456 × 387 cm (179.5 × 152.4 inches), placing it among the rarer and more significant productions from the celebrated Swedish weaving atelier. The carpet demonstrates Nilsson’s remarkable ability to combine traditional Scandinavian textile craftsmanship with a highly sophisticated modernist interpretation of geometric ornament.

The composition is built around a rhythmic arrangement of stylized floral and diamond motifs organized within a carefully structured grid. The central field is divided into broad horizontal bands containing lattice-patterned medallions framed by angular forms, while the surrounding areas are animated by large star-like motifs, geometric foliage, and scattered decorative elements. The design is executed in a rich palette of moss green, olive, forest green, sage, brown, charcoal, muted beige, pale lavender, and soft yellow-green accents. The subtle variation of tones within the handwoven wool creates depth and movement across the surface, giving the carpet a painterly quality despite its geometric precision.

Barbro Nilsson served as artistic director of Märta Måås-Fjetterström from 1942 and became one of the most influential textile designers in twentieth-century Sweden. Her works are represented in major museums and public collections, and carpets from her most important series are highly regarded among collectors and institutions. Nejlikan belongs to the body of designs that exemplify her mastery of combining historical textile references with a distinctly modern Scandinavian aesthetic.

The carpet is handwoven in wool using traditional flatweave techniques characteristic of Märta Måås-Fjetterström production. The weaving displays exceptional craftsmanship, visible in the crisp transitions between colors, the complexity of the pattern, and the finely balanced proportions of the design. Close inspection reveals the nuanced mélange yarns and subtle color shifts that are characteristic of the workshop’s highest-quality production.

The carpet remains in good vintage condition with signs of age and use consistent with its history. The woven surface retains strong color saturation and a well-preserved pattern definition. Fringes can be added by Märta Måås-Fjetterström upon request, offering the possibility of restoring the carpet according to the atelier’s traditional finishing standards.