Ethel Halvar-Andersson carpet

This rare and large carpet, designed by Swedish textile artist Ethel Halvar-Andersson in the 1960s, is a striking example of Scandinavian modernist weaving. Characterized by bold color composition and structured geometric layout, the carpet reflects Halvar-Andersson’s signature style—fusing artistic expression with precision craftsmanship.

The design is organized around a regular grid of rectangular and square modules, forming a balanced composition that plays with symmetry, contrast, and repetition. The outer perimeter of the carpet is framed in varying shades of blue—from deep navy to lighter, cooler tones—which serve to ground the composition and draw the viewer inward. The central area features a warm, vibrant arrangement of red and orange squares, accented with interspersed yellow and striped segments. These striped blocks, often composed of alternating colors, introduce a sense of movement and rhythm within the otherwise orderly grid.

Subtle grey elements are interwoven throughout the pattern, providing a neutral balance that offsets the more saturated hues. The use of these contrasting yet harmonious tones is typical of Halvar-Andersson’s textile philosophy, where color and form work in dialogue to create both decorative and spatial coherence.

Woven in a flat-weave technique, the carpet has a distinct surface texture that enhances the visual impact of the pattern. The edges are finished with a traditional Swedish fringe, adding a tactile element and linking the design to vernacular Nordic textile traditions. While the body of the carpet remains in excellent condition—with vivid colors and intact structure—the fringes show minor signs of wear, consistent with its age and prior use.

Ethel Halvar-Andersson (1911–1996) was a prominent figure in Swedish textile art during the mid-20th century. Known for her bold yet precise compositions, she brought a graphic sensibility to weaving, combining functional textile applications with strong visual language. Her work aligns with the Scandinavian modernist ethos, where everyday objects are elevated through thoughtful design and careful material execution.

The carpet measures 360 cm in length and 210 cm in width (141.7 x 82.7 inches), making it a substantial textile suitable for use in large interiors such as living rooms, public lobbies, or curated gallery spaces. As a woven artwork, it represents both an important historical artifact of 1960s Swedish design and a compelling visual statement grounded in craftsmanship and modernist aesthetics.