Mughal Carpet: 400-Year-Old Masterpiece Auctions

A Mughal-era carpet, approximately 400 years old, is poised for auction at Sotheby's in New York on October 21, 2026. This historic textile, known as the 'Yerkes-Remarque' Mughal hunting carpet, carries an estimate of $250,000-$350,000. Its exquisite design features hunting scenes, flowering vines, and richly colored motifs.

Originating from the first half of the 17th century, a period of flourishing art under the Mughal Empire, the carpet measures about 473 cm by 200 cm. It is crafted from a wool pile on a cotton foundation, with a striking wine-red background adorned with palmettes, rosette blossoms, and vivid contrasting colors.

The carpet's compelling hunting scenes depict animals like tigers, leopards, and lions. Expert analysis suggests a court design workshop was likely responsible for its creation, pointing to skilled court designers' involvement.

Previously, the carpet was owned by American financier Charles T. Yerkes, who amassed a significant collection of Oriental carpets. After his death, his collection was auctioned in 1910, with the Mughal hunting carpet documented in "The Yerkes Collection of Oriental Carpets."

Later, it was owned by German novelist Erich Maria Remarque, author of "All Quiet on the Western Front." The carpet remained with him in Switzerland for decades before passing through private collections and eventually entering the Thyssen-Bornemisza Collection in 1986.

This significant textile previously sold for £314,500 at a Sotheby's London auction in 2013, demonstrating its enduring value and appeal. Its upcoming appearance at Sotheby's New York continues its extraordinary journey.