NEW YORK -- Legendary antique rug dealer Doris Leslie Blau, who founded her eponymous gallery in 1965, has died.

"She founded Doris Leslie Blau in 1965 and quickly rose to be the darling of the design community with her unique character and acquisition of the most eclectic rugs," Nader Bolour, who acquired the showroom in 1998, stated. "She was an icon who shattered ceilings and left an indelible legacy. It has been an honor for me to have worked with Doris for the past 37 years and to be able to continue her legacy."