Scandinavian Modern Handmade "Rya" Rug, Unika Væv & Ross Littell, Denmark 1960s
£3,581 per item
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Item details
Height
225.0 cm
Wear conditions
Good
Wear conditions
Excellent
Shows little to no signs of wear and tear.
Good
May show slight traces of use in keeping with age. Most vintage and antique items fit into this condition.
Average
Likely to show signs of some light scratching and ageing but still remains in a fair condition.
Apparent Wear and Tear
Visible signs of previous use including scratches, chips or stains.
Please refer to condition report, images or make a seller enquiry for additional information.
Description
Large handmade "Rya" rug by Ross Littell made in Denmark in the 1960s at Unika-Væv. Hand woven in the Scandinavian Rya-tradition with a long pile in wonderful blue, grey and brown colours. This design was made by American designer Ross Littell who was an important figure in Danish Design in the 1960s through his collaboration with Nanna Ditzel and Verner Parton among others. This unique piece was used to decorate a Danish Modern furniture store in the 1960s and has been kept in storage ever since. The condition is therefore very good with few signs of wear.
Though rya means "rug" in English, the original meaning in Sweden of rya was a bed cover with a knotted pile. The first ryas originated in the early fifteenth century as coarse, long-piled, heavy covers used by mariners instead of furs. As time progressed, the rugs have evolved to be lighter and more colorful. In the 1960s the Rya rugs was reinvented as an important part of the Danish Modern movement by designers such as Nanna Ditzel, Verner Panton and Ross Littell.
American textile designer, artist and furniture designer Ross Littell was a passionate advocate of Scandinavian design.
After receiving a degree in industrial design from Pratt Institute in New York Littell soon began an illustrious career producing designs for the likes of Knoll and Herman Miller in the 1950's and 1960's. He moved to Copenhagen in 1960 where his appreciation for Scandinavian design developed. Littell later moved to Italy before finally returning to his native California. During his time in Europe, Littell worked with a number of prominent textile and furniture manufacturers.
Geometry, nature and motion proved constant inspirations for Littell throughout his career. In particular, he developed innovative fabric patterns based on mathematical combinations and rhythm. The resulting optical designs proved influential and are now a familiar image of the 1960’s.
Condition report:
Good. Wear consistent with age and use. Great original condition. Amazing colours.
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Free collection available
Yes
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- Ships from Odense, Denmark
Cancellations and Returns
Last updated: 24th March 2025
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