Design N.38

The Design N.38 rug reflects Albert Gleizes’s continued exploration of rhythm, fragmentation, and spatial movement within abstraction. As a foundational figure of Cubism, Gleizes moved beyond the analytical structure of early Cubism toward a more fluid system of composition, where forms are broken apart and reassembled into a dynamic visual field. This design exemplifies that approach, presenting a composition built from smaller, shifting elements that interact across the surface.

Rather than relying on large, dominant shapes, Design N.38 is composed of numerous fragmented forms that create a sense of constant motion. These elements appear to circulate and overlap, guiding the eye through the composition in a series of subtle transitions. The result is a more dispersed and atmospheric structure, where no single area dominates and the visual experience unfolds gradually.

The palette is primarily grounded in warm, neutral tones—beige, tan, and yellow ochre—which establish a calm and cohesive foundation. Within this restrained field, accents of emerald green and red introduce moments of contrast and visual punctuation. These color shifts animate the composition without overwhelming it, reinforcing Gleizes’s interest in balance and controlled dynamism.

Handwoven in wool and natural silk, the rug translates this layered composition into a tactile medium. The interplay between matte and luminous fibers enhances the depth of the fragmented forms, allowing certain passages to subtly emerge depending on light and perspective. The material softens the complexity of the design while preserving its structure and rhythm.

Produced in a limited edition of eight by Atelier Boccara, Design N.38 features a woven signature and numbering integrated into the composition. Customizable in material, dimensions, and color palette, it offers flexibility while maintaining the integrity of Gleizes’s abstract vision.