The art of rug weaving is part of a rich tradition of folklore and history.
Each rug has its own story to tell, is a fine example of the ancient craft of rug-weaving, and an original work of art.
Unique and beautiful, these finely woven rugs evoke a delightful feeling of enchantment from the skillful blending of colours and forms.
Some rugs are virtually a picture dictionary of the flora and fauna of the East, representing all kinds of flowers, birds and animals. The beauty of other rugs is found in the striking geometrical designs.
All colours have special meaning and the designs specials significance. They bear witness to the hopes and aspirations of the weavers and show their affiliation with the clans, tribes, and regions from where they originated.
Genuine and knotted rugs have been considered an investment for many generations and will continue to appreciate in beauty and value for generations to come.
WEAVING
The warp, or base, of hand knotted rugs can be wool, cotton, or silk. The pile, or surface of the rug, is woold or silk or a combination of both knotted on the wrap. The weft consists of one or more threads woven between one row of knots and the next.
MATERIALS
Wool, cotton, and silk are the most common materials used for weaving Oriental rugs. Organic dyes, extracted from indigo,saffron,madder,root,henna, various barks, peels, and leaves, are still used today.
Although synthetic dyes were discovered in 1856, it is only in the last few decades that these dyes have been perfected for use in rug weaving.
HISTORY
The genesis of the art of rug-weaving remains a mystery. What is well documented, however, is the reference to hand-made rugs in literature and art.
It was not until the mid 19th century that the study of rug-weaving became an integral part of studies in Islamic Art.
Archaeologists from England and Germany excavated a perfectly preserved rug dated to 500 B.C. in the Pazyaryak Vally of Siberia in the late 1940s.
Carpet lovers and collectors around the globe found their personal belief in the durable beauty and ancient tradition of rug-weaving confirmed by this historical discovery.
Today the art and history of rug weaving is a fascinating field of study for collectors, art historians, and first-time buyers.