Where were these dark red wool carpets made?

These carpets originate from nomadic and village weaving traditions across Persia, Afghanistan, the Caucasus, and Central Asia. Communities such as the Baluch, Turkmen, and Qashqai produced them for daily domestic use and tribal life. Production centres included regional hubs like Kashan and Kelardasht, alongside remote tribal encampments where weavers relied on local sheep's wool and plant dyes.

How do I care for an antique wool carpet?

Care requires gentle, regular vacuuming without rotating brush heads to protect the fragile hand-spun wool pile. Professional cleaning suited to antique textiles preserves the natural lanolin and dye stability. Keep the carpet out of direct, harsh sunlight to prevent fading of the madder reds and use a breathable underlay to prevent sliding and wear against hard floors.

What is the difference between a runner and an area rug?

Runners feature an elongated, narrow format specifically designed for hallways, corridors, and bedside placement. Their proportions accommodate restricted spatial requirements while maintaining traditional border designs. Area rugs provide broader rectangular dimensions suited to anchoring central spaces in a room, displaying more expansive field patterns and larger central medallions.