Märta Måås-Fjetterström carpet

This very rare and large flat-woven carpet, titled Grön äng (“Green Meadow”), was designed by Märta Måås-Fjetterström in 1928 and produced by Märta Måås-Fjetterström AB in Sweden. This particular example, woven post-1941, has been professionally restored by the original workshop in Båstad and includes a certificate of authenticity, confirming its provenance and historical integrity.

Grön äng is one of Märta Måås-Fjetterström’s celebrated designs, representing her unique ability to merge Swedish folk tradition with modernist clarity. The composition consists of intricately arranged, stylized floral motifs, organized in vertical rows across the field of the carpet. These elements, both geometric and organic in character, reflect the designer’s deep understanding of symmetry, rhythm, and abstraction. The balanced structure of the design gives it a sense of harmony, while the vivid yet earthy color palette lends warmth and vibrancy.

The dominant green background evokes the Swedish countryside and lends the piece a natural serenity. This is accented with cream, navy blue, beige, mustard yellow, and red, creating a subtle yet dynamic interplay of tones. These colors, paired with the tight and disciplined composition, showcase the influence of nature and folklore that defined Måås-Fjetterström’s oeuvre, while also aligning with the aesthetic values of early 20th-century Scandinavian modernism.

The carpet is executed using traditional Swedish flat-weaving techniques, resulting in a dense, finely textured surface. The craftsmanship is evident in the precision of the pattern, the uniformity of the weave, and the consistency of color transitions. The ends are finished with carefully braided fringes, a hallmark of high-quality artisanal weaving and a detail that underscores the authenticity of the piece.

Measuring 562 x 281 cm (approximately 221.3 x 110.6 inches), this is a particularly large example—suitable for expansive interiors where its intricate detail and scale can be appreciated in full. The proportions and layout allow the design to read rhythmically across a large surface, making it a central visual element within any architectural context.

Märta Måås-Fjetterström (1873–1941) is widely regarded as one of the most influential textile designers in Swedish history. Her work laid the foundation for modern Swedish tapestry and rug design. In 1919, she founded her own workshop in Båstad, which became a center for textile innovation and artistic excellence. The workshop continued to produce her designs after her death, maintaining her legacy and preserving the technical and aesthetic standards she established.

The restoration by MMF’s own atelier in Båstad ensures that the carpet retains not only its structural integrity but also its original visual character. The accompanying certificate of authenticity confirms its origin, date of production, and faithful restoration—a significant attribute for collectors, institutions, and design historians.

This carpet represents a masterwork of Swedish textile art. With its scale, provenance, and craftsmanship, it serves as both a functional floor covering and a monumental decorative object. It is a compelling representation of Märta Måås-Fjetterström’s contribution to the evolution of modern design in the Nordic region.