How do I care for a vintage runner?

Vacuum gently without a rotating brush bar to protect the wool pile and historical side cords. Rotate the piece annually to ensure even wear across high-traffic zones. Professional washing by a specialist in antique textiles removes embedded grit without damaging natural dyes. Keep the piece away from direct, prolonged sunlight to preserve the original colour depth.

Where should I place a long runner?

Corridors, entrance halls, and narrow landings provide the traditional setting for these elongated formats. They also anchor galley kitchens or line the sides of a large bed. Use a breathable underlay to keep the textile stable on hard wood or stone floors. This prevents sliding and reduces friction between the wool foundation and the floorboards.

How do I tell Heriz and Sarab runners apart?

Heriz runners typically display bold, architectural medallions with large-scale geometric corners and sturdy saturated palettes. Their drawing is crisp and structural. Sarab pieces lean towards camel hair fields, repeating boteh motifs, and softer, muted earthy tones. The overall aesthetic feels more relaxed and village-driven than urban.

What period do these runners come from?

Most examples date from the late nineteenth century through to the early decades of the twentieth century. This era represents the height of traditional village production before synthetic dyes became widespread. Datings rely on stylistic markers, structural analysis, and the specific palette used by the weavers. Each decade carries distinct shifts in wool preparation and border designs.