How do I care for an antique wool carpet?

Vacuum gently without a rotating brush to protect the hand-knotted wool pile and cotton foundations. Professional cleaning preserves the natural dyes and structural integrity. Keep the carpet out of direct sunlight to prevent fading of soft pastel or deeply saturated ground colours over time.

Where were these carpets originally made?

These pieces originate from various regions across Persia, including city workshops in Tabriz and Kashan, as well as village centres like Heriz, Mahal, and Malayer. Tribal groups such as the Quchan Kurds, Baluch, and Bakhtiari also produced distinctive rugs with regional geometric and garden designs.

How can I tell village rugs from city rugs?

Village rugs typically feature bolder, geometric medallions and tribal motifs woven with heavier wool and more relaxed structures. They reflect local traditions passed down through generations. City carpets display finer, more intricate floral compositions with dense knotting on cotton foundations, produced in established urban workshops.

Are these carpets suitable for heavy foot traffic?

Wool and cotton construction provides natural durability for everyday use in living spaces and hallways. Room-sized carpets handle household activity well when placed over a quality underlay. Finer silk pieces, such as Kashan examples, suit lower-traffic areas where the detailed weave and delicate materials receive less friction.