How do I clean an antique rug?

Gentle surface brushing and professional specialist washing preserve the natural wool pile. Avoid harsh chemical agents that strip the historical dyes. Regular rotation prevents uneven wear patterns in high-traffic hallways and living spaces.

Can I place these rugs in hallways?

Long runner formats function well in corridors and entryways where foot traffic is frequent. Placing a suitable underlay beneath the textile prevents slipping and cushions the foundation. Selecting tightly knotted wool construction ensures the piece withstands daily passage.

How do I identify regional designs?

Specific border arrangements, specific colour palettes, and distinct geometric medallion structures point toward particular weaving origins. Comparing motif repetitions helps differentiate between Shirvan, Karabagh, and Kazak traditions. Examining the weave density on the reverse side offers further clues regarding provenance.

Are natural dyes used in these?

Traditional nineteenth and early twentieth-century pieces rely on plant and insect extracts to achieve rich indigo and secondary tones. These colorants yield a characteristic warmth and patina that chemical substitutes lack. Subtle variations within a single colour field often indicate the use of natural dye baths.