How do I clean an antique rug?

Gentle surface brushing and professional specialist washing preserve the delicate wool pile and natural dyes without causing fibre breakdown. Avoid harsh chemical detergents and standard domestic carpet cleaning machines to maintain the structural integrity of the cotton foundations.

Are these rugs suitable for high traffic areas?

Sturdy wool construction allows many room-size carpets and tribal weaves to endure daily domestic use when paired with a quality underlay. Finer silk or delicate nineteenth-century pieces benefit from placement in quieter rooms to minimise physical friction on the pile.

How do I distinguish regional styles?

Heriz and Bidjar rugs typically feature bold geometric medallions and heavy structural wool, whereas Kirman and Tabriz examples showcase refined floral curves. Tribal pieces like Bakhtiar and Baluchi display repeating garden panels or symbolic motifs reflecting nomadic weaving traditions.

What does an ivory ground signify?

An ivory or cream ground colour provides a neutral backdrop that highlights the intricate botanical or geometric secondary colours. This lighter palette became particularly popular in twentieth-century city workshops aiming to brighten larger domestic interiors.