Where were these mats made?

These textiles originate from nomadic and village communities across Persia, Anatolia, the Caucasus, Afghanistan, and Tibet. Local weavers produced them for domestic use, ritual prayer, or daily sustenance. Production centres include specific tribal regions such as Kerman, Konya, and the borderlands of north-east Persia and north-west Afghanistan, each maintaining distinct regional motifs and weaving techniques.

How do I care for wool rugs?

Keep these textiles out of direct sunlight to prevent natural dye fading, and vacuum them gently without using a rotating brush roll. Professional cleaning suited for antique wool is essential when dust accumulates within the pile. Allowing air circulation underneath the mat prevents moisture retention, particularly when placed on solid flooring surfaces.

A sofreh is a flatwoven or piled cloth used historically by nomadic groups for eating, kneading dough, or wrapping bread. Their designs often feature stark geometric layouts and tribal symbols. These utilitarian pieces reflect the daily domestic rituals of tribes like the Afshar, Timuri, and various Persian nomads.

How do I identify a prayer rug?

Prayer rugs feature a distinct architectural motif known as a mihrab, which represents an arch or niche pointing in a specific direction. Makers across Anatolia, the Caucasus, and Persia utilised this design for personal devotion. These pieces typically measure in smaller formats suited for kneeling, often finished with detailed borders and symbolic corner motifs.