Oriental rugs have always been characteristically of the highest quality and are extremely durable. However, each rug is unique in appearance- each rug’s pattern, colours and weaving techniques are specific to a geographic area or tribe. This has led to a great deal of variation in style and design from country to country.
There are many factors to take into consideration when considering purchasing an Oriental rug – fabric, design, thread-count, history and most importantly perhaps, the sheer beauty and your personal appreciation of the rug.
Kazak rugs are charming and well-made, generally of a medium thickness. They are incredibly distinctive and generally consist of straight geometric patterns, influenced by Caucasian designs. They also often contain elaborate floral motifs.
Hand-knotted Afghan Sultanabad rugs are woven using a variety of muted tones and hues, which make the rug easy to incorporate into both modern and contemporary homes. They are superior in quality, reflecting the centuries of craftsmanship that have gone into the production.
Rugs produced in Iran have a remarkable heritage, as you can see from our older post, The History of the Persian Rug.
Isfahan rugs made in Central Iran are renowned for their elaborate colours and intricate designs, influenced by the Persian architecture of Isfahan.
Kilim rugs have been found to date back to the fourth century. They are decorative tapestry-woven carpets, with smaller rugs often used as prayer mats. However, they are also beautiful in the home; their bold patterns and colours blend into any interior.
Malayer rugs are some of the most decorative rugs available. Originating from Northwest Persia as early as the 18th century, they boast traditional nomadic patterns. Rich colours, predominantly different shades of red and blue, make these rugs truly striking and they are slowly beginning to get the recognition that they deserve.
Tabriz and Nain rugs are characterised by their weaving techniques and use of high-quality materials, colours and patterns. Made often using exceptionally fine silk, the knot density is very high. Patterns with a medallion in the centre with floral motifs are incredibly common and look truly wonderful in the home.
Although Oriental rugs are notoriously the most beautiful and best-quality rugs available on the market, we at The London Persian Rug Company believe that the Persian rug is truly unbeatable. With their rich heritage and timeless designs, the demand for Persian rugs has risen- and we can see exactly why!
Traditional Turkish rugs are very few and far between due to the influx of mass-produced rugs working their way into Turkish bazaars.
Look out for famous Seljuk rugs which have been produced by nomadic people for centuries. Made of fine and rich silks, these rugs are often considerably large with patterns formed using various shades of red, brown, green and blue vegetable dyes- the colours in original rugs are particularly striking, even today.
Here at The London Persian Rug Company, we stock a variety of rugs originating from across Asia- come and see what we have to offer in store, or get in touch to arrange a home trial or measuring service.