How do I clean an antique woven rug?

Surface dust can be removed gently using a soft brush or light suction without the beater bar. Professional textile cleaning is recommended for deeper maintenance to protect natural wool and traditional dyes. Water exposure should be kept to a minimum to prevent dye bleeding or fibre shrinkage. Proper placement away from direct, harsh sunlight preserves the soft colours over time.

Can these rugs be placed on heated floors?

Natural animal fibres like wool and goat hair tolerate moderate ambient heat well. Placing a breathable, non-slip underlay beneath the textile prevents friction and allows proper air circulation. Avoid sealing the rug directly against unventilated hot surfaces to maintain the integrity of the historical materials.

What is the difference between a kilim and a pile rug?

A kilim is flat-woven with no raised pile surface, making it lighter and thinner. Pile rugs involve knotted loops of wool or silk sheared to create a plush, textured surface. Both forms served practical purposes in nomadic tents, with flat-weaves used for versatile coverings and pile rugs providing warmth on cold ground.

How are tribal motifs identified?

Motifs such as gols, medallions, and banded geometric patterns correspond to specific weaving groups and geographical regions. Turkmen, Kurdish, and Baluch tribes each employed distinct visual vocabularies passed down through generations. Comparing structural details and colour palettes helps connect a textile to its precise area of origin.