Late 19th Century 4 Point Star of Bethlehem Design Antique American Folk Art Hooked Rug

This antique late nineteenth-century American folk art hooked rug is a powerful example of "Sacred Geometry" in folk art, featuring one of the most iconic and beloved motifs in the early American textile lexicon. While many antique American folk art design hooked rugs of this era focused on secular floral or animal scenes, the Star of Bethlehem (also known as the Lone Star or Morning Star) represents a deeply spiritual and communal tradition, often mirrored in the prized quilts of the same period. The composition is dominated by a bold 4-point Star of Bethlehem design, centered within the field to create a sense of celestial balance. The star’s geometry is quintessentially "Primitive"—characterized by hand-drawn lines that possess a charming, human imperfection. This central icon acts as a focal point of "radiant energy," with its points reaching toward the corners of the rug.