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Vintage Tibetan Pictorial Area Rug — 1960s | 3' x 5'1"

The Tenzin

An heirloom rug from the Far East collection

Vintage Tibetan Pictorial Area Rug — 1960s | 3' x 5'1"

Sale price  $1,450.00 Regular price  $1,700.00
100% authentic
100% authentic
Hand-knotted
hand-knotted
Professionally cleaned
professionally cleaned

The Vintage Tibetan Pictorial Rug is a hand-knotted mid-20th-century area rug that brings narrative richness and refined color to intimate spaces. Woven in Tibet during the 1960s, this pictorial design depicts a serene nature scene rendered through expressive linework and luminous, well-preserved dyes—balanced, evocative, and quietly captivating.

  • Origin: Tibet
  • Age: Vintage, 1960s
  • Type: Pictorial area rug
  • Construction: Hand-knotted
  • Pile: Natural wool pile on cotton foundation
  • Use: Indoor
  • Size: 3' × 5'1"

Each rug is handcrafted and timeworn. Variations in size, color, and weave are natural characteristics of vintage handmade rugs and reflect their authenticity rather than imperfections.


DESCRIPTION

This vintage Tibetan pictorial area rug features a serene nature scene woven with expressive clarity and a balanced, contemplative composition. Tibetan pictorial rugs are celebrated for their narrative quality—designed to be both decorative and meditative, offering imagery and symbolism beyond pattern alone.

The dyes remain especially vibrant for its age, giving the scene a luminous presence that “shines” in natural light. Fine linework, clear forms, and subtle tonal variation add depth while maintaining a refined, composed feel well-suited to curated interiors.

Smaller in scale, this rug is ideal for layering, reading corners, bedside placement, entry accents, or intimate living spaces where craftsmanship and storytelling take precedence.


HISTORY

Hand-knotted in Tibet in the 1960s, this vintage Tibetan pictorial rug reflects a weaving tradition shaped by Himalayan life, Buddhist cultural influence, and an enduring respect for natural symbolism. Tibetan rugs were historically made for monasteries, homes, and ceremonial settings—crafted for warmth, durability, and spiritual presence in high-altitude environments.

Pictorial designs hold a special place within Tibetan rug-making. Rather than repeating all-over patterns, pictorial rugs tell a story—often depicting landscapes, animals, or nature scenes that reference harmony, protection, and the interdependence of the natural world. These woven images invite slower looking, functioning as both textile and artwork.

Wool from the region is prized for resilience and texture, and the clarity of the imagery is achieved through careful knotting, controlled linework, and deliberate color placement. Over time, well-preserved dyes develop a beautiful maturity—retaining vibrancy while gaining softness in tone.

Today, authentic vintage Tibetan pictorial rugs are collected for their craftsmanship and their ability to bring meaning and narrative to interiors. In a home, a piece like this offers more than decoration—it offers a sense of place, tradition, and quiet contemplation underfoot.


ABOUT THE NAME

Tenzin is a Tibetan name often associated with the idea of “holding” or “upholding” wisdom and teaching. It carries a calm, grounded energy—steadfast, centered, and quietly strong. We chose the name Tenzin for this rug because its pictorial landscape feels like a still moment preserved in wool: balanced, peaceful, and contemplative.

The name also connects to the rug’s design language. The nature scene is rendered with careful linework and deliberate composition, inviting the eye to rest and wander without overwhelm. The luminous dyes and serene imagery echo the sense of clarity and calm the name evokes—an object that brings visual quiet to a space.

Tenzin is ideal for homes that value meaning alongside beauty. Whether placed in a reading nook, bedroom, or layered living area, it serves as a small-scale anchor—an artful textile that carries Tibetan heritage and a tranquil presence.


MATERIALS & COMPOSITION
  • Primary material: Natural wool
  • Foundation: Cotton
  • Construction: Hand-knotted
  • Dye method: Hand-dyed yarns
  • Finish: Individually inspected and professionally washed

CONDITION DETAILS

This vintage Tibetan pictorial rug is in great condition for its age, with especially vibrant dyes and clear imagery that remain well-defined. The wool pile is well preserved, offering a soft, resilient feel underfoot while maintaining the crisp narrative detail that makes Tibetan pictorial rugs so collectible.

The rug has been professionally washed and treated, and it has been individually inspected prior to leaving our warehouse. Any minor variations in weave, color, or linework are consistent with authentic hand-knotted Tibetan rugs and reflect the handmade nature of the piece rather than flaws.

With its strong overall condition and luminous color, this rug is ready for immediate in-home use—perfect for accent placement, layering, or smaller spaces where you want craftsmanship and storytelling in a refined footprint.


CARE INSTRUCTIONS

Rugs are professionally cleaned prior to shipment. Minor loose fibers may be present upon arrival and will settle with gentle vacuuming.

We recommend placing this rug in low- to medium-traffic areas or using it as an accent or layered piece. A quality rug pad will provide additional support and stability.

Vacuum gently without a beater bar. Spot clean as needed. For deep cleaning, consult a professional rug cleaner experienced with vintage and hand-knotted rugs. Avoid excessive moisture and prolonged direct sunlight.


FAQ

Is this rug one of a kind?
Yes. Each vintage pictorial rug is unique in imagery, coloration, and weave. The rug shown is the exact piece you will receive.

Is this a genuine vintage Tibetan rug?
Yes. This rug was hand-knotted in Tibet during the 1960s and reflects traditional Tibetan pictorial weaving techniques.

Is the rug ready for use?
Yes. This rug has been professionally washed, inspected, and is ready for immediate in-home placement.

Where does a rug this size work best?
This size is ideal for accent use, layering, bedside placement, reading nooks, or smaller living spaces.

Shipping & Delivery

The Leonidas Collection is proud to offer carbon neutral shipping on most heirloom rug purchases.

  • Shipping is calculated at checkout and includes handling and insurance.
  • Select rugs ship free within the continental U.S.
  • Oversized items ship via freight carrier (curbside delivery).
  • Shipping fees are non-refundable.
  • Damage or delivery issues must be reported within 48 hours.
Return Policy
  • Heirloom rugs (including vintage & antique) are returnable within 3 days of delivery, unless otherwise noted.
  • Heirloom rugs purchased on sale or with a discount are final sale.
  • Contemporary rugs are returnable within 14 days of delivery, unless otherwise noted.
  • Return authorization is required.

Please review the full details of our Return & Refund Policy for more information.

We encourage customers to contact us at hello@leonidascollection.com with any questions prior to purchase to ensure confidence in your selection.

Origin Story

The Heriz Collection

Our collection of vintage Persian Heriz rugs are known for their bold geometry, architectural presence, and exceptional durability.

Handwoven in northwest Iran, these heirloom pieces feature strong medallions, rich earth-toned palettes, and a time-softened patina—bringing structure, history, and quiet confidence to modern interiors.

Heirloom Quality

Selected for durability, craftsmanship, and longevity.

Ethically Sourced

Curated from vetted suppliers and trusted partners.

Expert Support

Personal guidance from our U.S. based team of experts.

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