The 'Chessboard' carpet. Central Asia (Samarqand?), late 14th - early 15th century. Museum of Islamic Art, Doha

This rare carpet is in a good condition. The design comprises a border with a knot design, and the field (centre) is a repeating scroll pattern based on the design of silk textiles of the 14th century. The ‘chessboard’ design suggests it was used to play chess or another game of the period. It was probably owned by a ruler.