Finnish ryijy (or in Swedish 'rya') rug with totemic designs in the border and central rectangle and silk highlights in the white ‘splashes’ (see lower row center photo). Ryijy's / rya's are traditional Scandinavian wool rugs with a long pile - often 'shaggy' - and usually between 2.5cm to 5cm (1 to 2 inches) in length. The first ryijy / rya's originated in the early fifteenth century as coarse, heavy covers used by mariners instead of furs. As time progressed, the rugs have evolved to be lighter and more colourful From the late 1700's onwards their use has evolved in the early fifteenth century as coarse, heavy covers used by mariners instead of furs. They slowly evolved to become now more traditionally used as bed or 'sofa' covers, and also displayed on a wall or floor in this instance. This is a beautiful example of a piece that was woven circa 1940 or before and evokes an almost shamanistic forest presence. Wool warp and weft, size 204cm inc. fringe (165cm ‘pile’ ) x 115cm wide (approx. 80.25in [65in] x 45.25in). In excellent condition and a very good example of a totemic designed ryijy. (For more Finnish ryijy's please see https://warpandweft.club/scandinavia/)