An Aubusson rug, France, Napoleon III

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Lined with later linen backing. Hessian strip down one long edge only. Splits between areas, due to colour changes and commensurate with weaving technique, for example between panel and yellow outer band (which can re repaired) and in areas within the panel, for example between green leaves and white petals. Some areas show the white stitches which hold these together. There are some areas of repair. For example: to the centre of the panel there is a small rewoven area of reweaving (musk pink and white: approx. 4cm. x 3.5cm diameter); Then clockwise direction from top edge of catalogue image: There is hand repair to stem of trail, worked in terracotta coloured stitching, then right short side, centre near the the edge with an irregular shaped area of repair to area of ground and edge of flower, visible in catalogue as different colour (approx. 14cm. x 5cm) and another shaped repaired area to leaf top lower left of this area (approx. 6.5cm x 3cm); Right of lower long side with small brown leaf to side of design which has come away around the leaf/ground edge and needs repair (approx. 4.5cm. long); further along this long edge there is repair to a leaf - green stitching (approx. 2cm. x 1cm); then to design along left vertical short side with hand repair along stem of leaf (4cm.) and repair to another leaf (approx. 2.5cm x 2.5cm. The ground is in overall good condition, with even colour. The corners are slightly darker. There is some dirt in areas (may improve with cleaning) and some fading to pale colours such as roses and berries.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."