Antique North African 19th Century Small Rush Woven Mat

Read the fine print below the item description and condition section, as it is part of the buyer and seller agreement. Any other items in the background or props besides the listed mat are not included in this auction. Jewelry or other objects are for scale or to show display ideas.

Up for sale/auction is a very old 19th North African woven mat sampler in the Tuareg style. It has a fine patina, and looks like the rush has been dyed by vegetable or herbs. This would be wonderful mounted and framed to display along other African and indigenous basketry or tribal objet d’art. 

Because of its small size, I think it may have been a sampler or tourist piece. It’s hard to say, but it definitely wasn’t bigger as can be evidenced by how the edges are finished. I believe this to be a somewhat rare sample in the Tuareg style.

Measurements:  8’’ x 8” with an uneven edge. Please see photos with objects to gauge scale. 

Condition:  Very good for a handwoven piece of art over 100 years of age. There is some abrading to areas where the outer layer of rush and straw have peeled from the core. The edges are uneven, and it is not completely bound on all sides. Please review all photos and closeups carefully.  The mat has a beautiful darkened patina. 

SHIPPING: I provide free USA expedited shipping on all “Buy it Now” options $75 or over.  Combine smaller purchases to reach $75, and I will ship together free, refunding any shipping fees.  I ship next day following payment, except on weekends or holidays. 

INTERNATIONAL SALES:  All international shipping will be handled via eBay’s Global shipping program. International buyers must calculate their shipping and customs fees/taxes before purchasing. No exceptions.

The Fine Print

Welcome to my shop! I’ve been a dealer and collector of fine vintage sterling silver jewelry for over 40 years and am now retired from the trade. Most of the pieces listed this year have been off-market for over 10 years or from my personal collection.

Photos:  Please review all photos and descriptions of condition. Photos are part of the description. All measurements are approximate and done to the best of my ability. Ring size is measured on a standard mandrel. Weights are provided in grams and measured on a postal scale that is calibrated.

Returns:  I do not accept returns, but will do my best with you to ensure you receive communication from me. If there is a problem, let’s work it out via eBay’s secure messaging system.

Payment:  I encourage you to contact me if you have an issue with paying in the given time period by eBay. If you cannot pay, I ask that you refrain from bidding. Think about how you buy online from other independent sellers on Etsy, Posh or other secondary selling markets. You would not be able to delay payment and then walk away without completing the transaction. Let’s be good trading partners and do our best. I know I am.

What condition are these pieces in:  These items are all vintage, antique (older than 50 years), or from a secondary contemporary marketplace. As such, there will be scuffs, scratches on stones and metal, visible use, sometimes slightly bent ring bands or clasps or rings that need attention. I will do my best to photograph these or point out any issues. Please review all photos prior to bidding.

I leave the patina on pieces, especially with oxidation. If you would prefer something to be shinier and polished before it is mailed, please contact me and I will use an industry recommended product to hand polish, although it may leave a slight odor that can easily be removed by you with rinsing in water with gentle detergents.

Shipping:  Items sold for a value of over $300 USD will require signature confirmation.