If I had to describe my sense of home décor, two things come to mind. Our house is furnished sparingly to allow for ample space for our two rabbits and two cats to roam and frolic. Second, we own a small collection of Tibetan tiger rugs. This quilted headboard encompasses these two sensibilities. We don’t own a bed—our mattress just lies on the floor—which calls for a special kind of headboard. I liked the idea of a headboard I could just roll up and throw in the washer and dryer. My fascination with Tibetan tiger rugs completed the equation.

Once, hundreds of years ago, Tibetan tiger rugs were made of real tiger skins to symbolize its owner’s power and status. When tigers in that part of the world became extinct, the Tibetans adjusted their tradition by weaving “tiger” rugs. Today, only about 200 of these antique rugs exist, but their patterns continue to inspire. I like the rugs’ awkwardness, their improvised style, the way the tigers’ faces are abstract distortions of the real thing.

This king-bed-sized tiger rug headboard or wall hanging measures 31 x 77 inches. It is made from 100 percent cotton. Machine quilted, it can be machine-washed and line-dried.

SOLD. Contact me at sabineheinlein@gmail.com if you’re interested in a similar, custom made pillow.

Photos: Rebecca Krasnik