What looks at first like an abstract central medallion is in reality a pair of writhing dragons on this striking French interpretation of an antique Chinese carpet. In the same way, four more dragons at the outer extremes of the field serve as latent cornerpieces, while the intervening field is filled by floating clouds. The lovely pastel coloration in soft blues, yellows, greens and apricot set against a mauve ground provides the perfect balance for the graphic delicacy of the design.