How do I clean an antique rug?

Gentle surface brushing and professional specialist dusting form the safest routine for fragile wool piles. Water saturation and harsh chemical detergents risk bleeding the natural dyes and weakening the cotton or wool foundations. Regular rotation distributes foot traffic evenly across the surface, reducing localized wear. Keeping these textiles away from direct, harsh sunlight prevents the natural colours from fading prematurely.

Are these rugs durable enough for daily use?

Most room-sized carpets and dense village weaves handle normal walking traffic comfortably when paired with a quality underlay. The resilient nature of traditional wool pile absorbs impact effectively. Thinner tribal rugs, saddle covers, or delicate prayer formats suit low-traffic placement or wall mounting better. Assessing the condition of the foundation threads helps determine appropriate placement in the home.

How do I tell Caucasian rugs from Persian rugs?

Caucasian weaves typically display bold, geometric medallions, sharp angles, and strong primary colours like crisp blues and reds. The overall aesthetic leans toward stark, structural tribal patterns. Persian examples frequently incorporate curved floral vines, intricate central medallions, and softer botanical motifs. Workshops in regions such as Tabriz, Sarouk, and Heriz favoured more fluid, painterly compositions.

What is a prayer rug?

A prayer rug is a smaller format textile featuring a distinctive pointed arch or niche design known as a mihrab. Worshippers traditionally placed these on the floor during daily prayers to create a clean, dedicated space. The directional nature of the design means the niche points toward Mecca during use. Collectors prize them for their concentrated symbolism and compact, balanced layouts.