Antique English Axminster Rug, 19th century This grand little Axminster is a European counterpoint to the magnificent architectural prayer rugs of Safavid Persia and Ottoman Turkey. Richly fluted and festooned golden columns and fuchsia consoles with flwering vases all define a gabled niche. A black spandrel above contrasts with a cool green field below containing elegant ascending vines. The lavender ground frame consists of swags of flowers so life-like that bees might land on them in search of pollen. A masterpiece of exuberant decorative detail and rich but harmonious color.