Grenfell Rugs- American Folk Art

38''in x 27''in Grenfell Rug with Original Label

Textural folk art beloved for its handmade appeal and country designs hooked rugs have been sought-after country icons for quite some time. But, the popularity of hooked rugs has also caused the prices for 18th and 19th century rugs to be driven up into the hundreds, thousands, and even tens of thousands of dollars.

Grenfell hooked rugs were made at the Grenfell Mission in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada from 1910 through the 1930s. Authentic Grenfell rugs wear a sewn on label and are famous for depicting mainly northern themes- dog teams, puffins, polar bears, geese, etc. They were often made of women’s nylon or rayon stockings and are today quite pricey- from $400 to $3,000 and up- not to mention they’re hard to find.

In our research we found a rug similar to the one in our auction catalog this week (May 15th, 2010) that was being offered for $1250.00. This particular Grenfell rug was smaller in size and did not have the original label. We’re anxious to see what type of action our 38’’x27’’ Grenfell rug brings at auction!