Rugs: An introductory guide
Below is a brief introduction to the world of antique rugs. For a more in-depth discussion please contact us.
Rug Terminology
Kazak Lesghi Star Rug
Early 20th Century
Southern Caucasus
Caucasian Rugs
Antique carpet weaving from the Caucasus region is a rich and diverse tradition that spans centuries, showcasing the cultural and artistic heritage of the area. The Caucasus, a mountainous region, boasts over 30 peaks above 4000m elevation. Located between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea, Persia and Turkey, over 300 different tribes, speaking over 150 languages have over the centuries made this difficult landscape home, each with its own distinct weaving style. Survival in this mountainous region has meant tribal groups had to develop a deep understanding of their animals and their majestic natural environment, drawing inspiration from nature and learning to appreciate beauty where possible. The Caucasus lies at the heart of the ancient silk routes from China to Europe. Because of this its rug makers could draw inspiration from every rug-making tradition from Egypt to China.
Caucasian carpets are renowned for their vibrant colors, bold geometric patterns, and intricate designs. The weavers from this region utilized high-quality wool sourced from local sheep, ensuring durability and a lustrous finish.
Distinctive design elements in Caucasian carpets include stylized floral motifs, medallions, animal figures, and geometric shapes. The symbolic meanings behind these patterns often reflect the cultural identity and beliefs of the communities that produce them. Additionally, the use of natural dyes extracted from plants, insects, and minerals contributes to the distinctive color palette of these carpets, where a wonderful balance is achieved through contrast.
Caucasian rugs are highly prized by collectors and enthusiasts for their authenticity, craftsmanship, and cultural significance. Each carpet tells a unique story, showcasing the artistic skills and cultural influences of the weavers who crafted them. Today, antique Caucasian carpets remain not only as functional pieces but also as valuable investments that provide a glimpse into the rich history and artistic traditions of the Caucasus region.
Antique Kuba Lesghi Star Rug. Dated 1892
Antique Shirvan Rug. 19th Century
Karabagh Rug, Caucasus
Antique Shirvan Rug, Causasus
Antique Kuba Shirvan Kilim, Caucasus About 1880
Prayer Rugs
Antique prayer carpets were made for the Islamic faith. They began to be woven in various regions and in the 19th century were woven in the Caucasus, Persia, Turkey and by the Turkmen tribes of central asia. Traditionally smaller sized rugs, their designs vary from minimalist to intricate.
The main design of worship carpet type prayer rugs is the 'mihrab'. This niche motif woven into the top edge of the rug is a replica of the arches in the walls of all mosques, which point in the direction of Mecca, the holiest city of Islam. Architectural motifs are often found on more formal rugs, while motifs reflecting nature, such as flowers, animals and the tree of life are often found on tribal objects. Prayer rugs from the Caucasus region sometimes depict objects of daily life, such as combs, animals and birds. Some ewers/jugs are also used to signify the washing of the body before prayer. Hand patterns may also be depicted to indicate where hands are to be placed during prayer.
Each pattern or motif is designed by the weaver and may include designs specific to that tribe or village. No specific decoration is required, but is created by the weaver's imagination. Prayer rugs are often small so they can be carried or transported easily.
Prayer rugs have become respected and admired by collectors. These carpets are the weaver's most personal creations, woven for themselves or their family. Because of their size, inspiration and artistry, prayer rugs can also be used as wall hangings. Over time, these rare and unique rugs will only increase in sublimity and value if they are well cared for.
Baluch Prayer Rug, Camel Hair. Around 1890
Kuba Shirvan Prayer Rug, Caucasus. 19th Century
Shirvan Kilim, About 1885
Kilims
Kilims are plain flatweave carpets without a pile. Due to their relatively simple structure, weavers focus on creating interesting and imaginative patterns and colour combinations, making good use of negative space and colour shading as well as using tribal symbols.
The popularity of kilims in recent years has made them highly collectible and some are considered masterpieces. These kilims were not woven to be sold outside the country, but for personal use, so we have authentic tribal kilims woven in traditional patterns and colours. Kilims (along with jewellery, clothing and animals) are very important for nomadic identity and wealth. Nomads use kilims as floor and wall coverings, horse saddles, storage bags, bedding and cushion covers.
Antique Anatolian Cicim (Kilim), Turkey, Second half 19th Century
Bidjar Rugs
(Bidjar / Bijar) is a market centre in north-west Persia (Iran), about 220 km south of Tabriz. The desert town of Bijar and the surrounding countryside are mainly inhabited by Kurds, whose artistic expertise and culture is evident in their beautiful carpets. At the beginning of the 20th century, Bijar (Bidjar) was a small town with a population of around 20 000 people, but was the centre of a major textile production area. in Bijar (Bidjar) small workshops produced superbly crafted rugs and carpets.
Note the clever use of opposite colours in the fields and medallions of this rug and the exquisite Herati design (a classic Persian flower and leaf pattern). The aquamarine in the border accentuates it beautifully. Many antique Bijar rugs were commissioned by Persian nobility over the last few hundred years.
Bijar (Bijar) rugs are world-renowned for their fine artistry, craftsmanship and superior materials and can be recognised by their heavy wool (cotton in 20th century rugs) foundation. As the weaver knots each row, they add wet weft yarns, which, when dry, form a tight foundation that allows the antique Bijar rugs, known as 'Persian iron carpets', to withstand up to 200 years of heavy use. Weavers in the region have transformed many of the classic designs of antique rugs with their own interpretations. "Mina khani" and "Herati" Persian rug designs (both very detailed allover designs) and diamond-shaped medallions were frequently used. Pendant motifs can be seen on the vertical ends of the medallions on antique Bidjar rugs.
The culmination of centuries of weaving tradition, the finest Bidjar antique rugs woven before 1920 are wonderfully refined works of art, yet their design and colour palette are unique to Tribal rugs themselves, not found in other city carpets. They are highly valued by collectors and rug lovers for their uniqueness, durability and decorative qualities. They fits well in a wide range of interiors, from traditional to contemporary.
Qashqai Bagface, around 1900
Qashqai Main Carpet, circa 1875
Qashqai Rugs and Weavings
Qashqai weavings, particularly their carpets, are a testament to the rich cultural heritage and artistic prowess of the Qashqai people, a nomadic tribe in southwestern Iran. These weavings are more than mere textiles; they are vibrant expressions of tradition, identity, and resilience. Each piece tells a story, woven with threads dyed in natural hues and crafted by hands skilled in techniques passed down through generations.
For the Qashqai people, weaving is an integral part of daily life and cultural expression. The process begins with the shearing of their own sheep, whose wool is then spun and dyed using natural substances found in their environment. These natural dyes, derived from plants, minerals, and insects, produce the vivid reds, blues, yellows, and browns characteristic of Qashqai carpets. The use of these dyes not only reflects the tribe's connection to their land but also ensures the longevity and rich coloration of their weavings.
Qashqai weavings are renowned for their intricate designs and vibrant patterns. The carpets often feature geometric motifs, with central medallions or all-over patterns that are meticulously planned yet seemingly spontaneous. This duality is a hallmark of tribal art, balancing structure and freedom. Common motifs include diamonds, hexagons, and stylized floral and animal patterns, each imbued with symbolic meanings that reflect the tribe’s folklore and worldview. It is often said that Qashqai carpets have white warp threads, however there are plenty of examples where the warps are dark. The reverse is true of Khamseh carpets that can also be found with white warps. Qashqai rugs are usually more densely patterned than Khamseh rugs and there are some symbols (such as the comb) that never really appear on Khamseh weavings.
One of the most striking aspects of Qashqai carpets is their asymmetry and spontaneity. Unlike urban Persian rugs, which adhere to rigid, symmetrical designs, Qashqai weavings embrace irregularities. These deviations are not flaws but rather indications of the weaver’s hand and creative spirit, making each carpet unique.
The history of Qashqai weaving is deeply intertwined with the nomadic lifestyle of the tribe. As nomads, the Qashqai people moved with the seasons, herding their flocks and setting up temporary homes. This mobility influenced their weaving techniques and the practical aspects of their carpets, which needed to be durable, portable, and adaptable to various uses, from floor coverings to bedding.
In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Qashqai carpets began to attract attention beyond their tribal origins. European interest in Persian rugs grew, and Qashqai carpets were recognized for their quality and distinctive aesthetic. This external appreciation brought both opportunities and challenges, as market demands sometimes pressured weavers to alter traditional practices. However, the core elements of Qashqai weaving—the craftsmanship, the use of natural dyes, and the symbolic patterns remained resilient.