How do I identify a Heriz carpet?

Heriz carpets typically display bold, geometric central medallions and sturdy structures woven with thick wool yarns. Their designs often incorporate angular floral motifs rather than flowing curvilinear lines. Originating from the Heris district, these heavy room-sized carpets are built for durability and possess a distinct village aesthetic that contrasts with finer city workshops.

What is a Baluch main carpet?

Baluch main carpets are tribal textiles produced by nomadic or semi-nomadic groups in the borderlands of Persia and surrounding regions. They frequently feature prayer designs or repeating pencil box patterns. These rugs generally utilise dark colour palettes, incorporating deep reds, browns and blues alongside goat hair and wool materials in their construction.

How should I clean an antique rug?

Antique wool rugs require gentle maintenance, avoiding harsh mechanical washing or modern chemical detergents that strip natural lanolin from the fibres. Professional specialist cleaning remains the safest method for preserving older textiles. Regular careful vacuuming without a rotating beater bar helps prevent dust accumulation in the pile without stressing the antique foundation threads.

How do I date an old persian carpet?

Dating relies on examining structural characteristics, dye palettes, material wear patterns and stylistic conventions associated with specific manufacturing periods. Nineteenth-century examples often display subtle vegetable dye variations and softer handspun wool textures. Comparing knot styles and regional designs against documented historical pieces helps narrow down the approximate decade of production.