I should say faux nichol rug. The rug resurfaced when I emailed the sellers. I found the sellers in a business networknig site working for a large company so I don't think the rug was stolen.

However, I do think the thought of big money clouded their judgement. Their original ad said the rug was appraised for $28,000. However, weeks when I showed them the 'nichols mark they had no idea the rug was of value. They went to their computers when I was standing their saw an expensive nichol rug and instantly their demeanor changed. Before when they would accept $1,200 now they said I could buy the rug for $4,000 but everyone else would have to pay $5,000. They made this statement as if people would be lined up at their door.

When I emailed them yesterday,, they had somewhat a different tune. They said they were positive the rug was worth $18,000 so they could keep it for a time sellling it for $5,000 or I could have it for $1,500 just to give them room.

I went to a local rug store and asked them. Their comment was the same as I had recieved on this board. Big rugs with not that popular type and different color would be next to impossible to sell unless you were lucky. I then when to the web, found a dealer/auction house that had a lot of nichols rugs and ask their opinion. Their opinion is copied below.

RugPro had previously said the "nichols" mark on the rug really meant nothing. Obviously he is right. The other point is that inexperience seller's words carry little weight. Not only did this seller lie about appraisals (which was assumed) but they thought they hod a treasure and had the check cashed in their mind. In fact they have a big rug that has to moved by four people, hopefully at least it goes to a homeless shelter and not the dump.

One man's treasure might be another man's mirage, and hopefully the buyer sees clearly.

Thanks,
Btuma6

"Dear Bart,



The carpet appears to be mid 20th century Chinese, and not of the more renowned and sought after 1920-30’s pieces. As a result, I would not consider it to be a particularly strong investment piece. To give you an idea, the last carpet similar to this sold for under $500 and I was unable to sell the last two green field pieces at all.



I hope this is helpful for you and feel free to write back if you have any further questions.



Sincerely,



Duncan Blair
Rugs and Carpets Specialist
Ritchies Auctioneers"

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