How do I clean an antique carpet?

Surface dust should be removed gently using a suction-only vacuum without a rotating brush bar. Professional cleaning by a specialist in antique textiles is recommended for deep washing. Water exposure and standard household detergents must be avoided to prevent dye bleeding and fibre degradation in the wool pile.

Can I place these rugs in high traffic areas?

The dense wool pile and sturdy cotton foundations of nineteenth and early twentieth century Persian carpets provide remarkable durability. They withstand regular foot traffic in living rooms and reception spaces effectively. Using a quality underlay beneath the carpet prevents slippage and cushions the fibres against premature wear from underlying floorboards.

How do I identify a Serapi from a Heriz?

Serapi carpets typically display broader, more open geometric layouts with a calmer distribution of design elements compared to later Heriz production. The colour palette often leans towards softer terracotta and muted indigo tones. Heriz pieces from the early twentieth century generally feature tighter knots, sharper lines, and more intricate corner details within the main border.

What causes the colour variations in the wool?

Hand-spun wool dyed in small batches naturally absorbs indigo and other plant extracts unevenly. This phenomenon, termed abrash, results in gentle bands of shifting tone across the field. Rather than indicating a fault, this tonal variation confirms the traditional artisanal methods used to create nineteenth-century Persian carpets.