How do I clean an antique wool rug?

Maintenance requires gentle surface vacuuming without a beating brush to protect the historical wool fibres and natural dyes. Professional specialist cleaning remains essential for deep care. Water exposure should be managed carefully to prevent dye migration, particularly in pieces dyed with traditional natural substances.

Where were these carpets made?

Production centres span nomadic camps and rural villages across the Caucasus, Persia, Anatolia, and Tibet. Each region developed distinct weaving structures and symbolic motifs. Weavers utilised locally sourced materials, meaning the physical characteristics of the wool often point directly to the geographic origin.

Can I use runners in high traffic areas?

Long runners and kelims constructed with dense wool and sturdy cotton foundations handle moderate corridor foot traffic effectively. Placing a suitable underlay beneath the textile prevents slipping and reduces friction against the floor. Regular rotation ensures even wear patterns across the length of the runner over time.

How do I identify a tribal rug?

Tribal pieces typically display asymmetrical geometric designs, abrash colour variations, and spontaneous motifs woven from memory rather than rigid cartoons. The use of camel hair or goat hair in the foundation is also common. These characteristics reflect the nomadic lifestyle of the makers who created them for functional daily use within their communities.