How do I care for an antique ivory carpet?

Protect the wool pile from direct sunlight to prevent fading of the natural dyes and pale ivory ground. Vacuum gently with suction only, avoiding revolving brush heads that can pull at the hand-spun fibres. Rotate the carpet periodically to ensure even wear across high-traffic areas in a room. Consult a specialist textile conservator for professional washing rather than attempting home chemical cleaning.

Where were these carpets originally made?

The pieces originate primarily across Persia, the Caucasus, Anatolia, and Central Asia. Specific regions include workshop cities like Tabriz and Mahal, alongside tribal areas of the Caucasus and Baluchistan. Each weaving region developed distinct colour palettes, wool qualities, and structural characteristics. These regional traits help identify the likely origin of an unmarked village or nomadic piece.

What is a prayer rug?

A prayer rug is a smaller format textile traditionally used by individuals for daily prayers. It is typically distinguished by a distinct arched architectural motif known as a mihrab at one end. These pieces were woven in various regions including the Caucasus, Anatolia, and Persia. Their compact size made them portable and versatile for domestic use.

How can I tell the age of a rug?

Age is determined by analysing the materials, dye types, construction techniques, and stylistic wear patterns. Hand-spun wool and natural dyes generally point to nineteenth or early twentieth-century production. Structural details such as selvedge construction and fringe condition also offer clues to the period. Comparing motifs against documented regional examples helps narrow down the approximate decade of manufacture.