Mid Century Vintage American Henri Matisse Mimosa Rug, American Rug, Circa Date: Mid – 20th Century – Henri Matisse created the design for the Mimosa tapestry from cut paper in 1949, with revisions made in 1951. Legend has it that Matisse came across mimosas, flowering trees that populate the Cote D’azur in the French riviera, at a flower show in Nice and was thoroughly captivated and energized. Mimosa is the only art carpet he designed. His Mimosa tapestry rug was also the only textile he personally authorized during his lifetime. While it could be used on the floor, it was woven with the intent of hanging on the wall.