How do I care for an antique wool rug?

Vacuum gently without using a rotating brush bar to protect the hand-knotted pile from excessive friction. Professional cleaning remains essential for removing deep-set dirt while preserving natural wool oils. Keep the rug away from prolonged direct sunlight to prevent fading of the dyed wool. Rotating the floor covering every six months ensures even wear patterns across high-traffic zones.

Where were these carpets originally made?

These floor coverings originate primarily from the Caucasus region and the mountainous areas of North-West Persia. Village communities and nomadic tribes produced them using local materials and traditional patterns. Each weaving district developed distinct palette choices and geometric vocabulary that identify their geographical roots. Local sheep breeds provided the specific wool characteristics found in these regional pieces.

What is the difference between a runner and a carpet?

Runners are significantly longer and narrower, engineered to fit hallways, landings, and narrow spaces between furniture. Carpets provide a broad expanse designed to anchor sitting rooms or large dining areas. Both formats utilise similar hand-knotting techniques and wool materials but serve entirely different spatial functions within a domestic interior. The choice depends entirely on the architectural proportions of the room.

How can I date an older village rug?

Examination of the wool texture, dye palette, and structural foundation helps establish the likely period of manufacture. Natural dyes and hand-spun wool typically point towards nineteenth or early twentieth-century production. Stylistic shifts in border motifs and secondary colours also provide clues to the era in which a piece was woven. Comparing structural characteristics with dated examples from the same region confirms the timeframe.