Where should I place a runner rug?

These narrow formats suit hallways, corridors and bedside spaces where linear proportions work best. Their durable wool pile handles high foot traffic effectively. Position them clear of doorways to allow smooth clearance while accentuating architectural length.

How do I identify a Kurdish village rug?

Look for dense wool construction, saturated indigo grounds and geometric tribal motifs such as boteh or stylized shrubs. Village pieces often display spontaneous variations in border arrangements. Regional sub-types like Senneh or Bidjar reveal specific structural tightness and distinct regional palettes.

Are these rugs made with natural dyes?

Nineteenth and early twentieth-century village pieces frequently incorporate traditional natural dye sources, producing rich variations in navy and red tones. Hand-spun wool absorbs these colour materials with subtle tonal shifts. Close inspection of the pile reveals the characteristic mellowing associated with age and traditional dyeing methods.

How do I care for antique wool runners?

Vacuum gently using suction attachments without rotating brush bars to protect the hand-knotted pile. Rotate the piece periodically to ensure even exposure to light and wear. Professional rug cleaning preserves the integrity of the cotton foundations and dyed wool fibres.