Rag Rug, Semi-sphere with tulip design

This rug was made by Rhona Bayliss (1904-1996) for the family home 'Rosewood' in Maharakeke, near Waipukurau, during the years of the Great Depression. The rug remained in constant use throughout Rhona's lifetime, and was passed on to her daughter who gifted it to Te Papa.

Rag rugging was a popular domestic craft throughout the 1930s and 1940s - a time when thriftiness and home economy was an imperative. While many women made up their own designs, patterns could also be copied from women's magazines or purchased. Rhona has used small squares of men's recycled suiting fabric to back this particular rug.