What is a mihrab design?

The mihrab is the central pointed arch depicted on the surface of the rug, symbolising the prayer niche found in mosques. It directs the user's attention toward Mecca during devotion. Weavers across Anatolia, the Caucasus and Persia adapted this architectural form into distinctive regional geometries and colour palettes.

How do I care for an antique rug?

These textiles require gentle handling, regular gentle vacuuming without a rotating brush, and professional cleaning suited to natural dyes and wool. Keeping them out of direct sunlight prevents the fading of natural colours. Placing an appropriate underlay beneath the piece prevents slipping and reduces friction between the foundation and the floor.

What materials were used?

Foundation threads and pile consist primarily of hand-spun wool, cotton and occasionally silk, supplemented by camel hair or goat hair for natural colour variations. Colour was derived from natural dye sources before synthetic alternatives became widespread. The combination of these materials creates the tactile weight and resilience characteristic of nineteenth and early twentieth-century weaving.