How do I clean an antique rug?

Gentle surface cleaning and regular vacuuming without a beater bar help maintain wool fibres. Professional textile conservators should handle deeper washing to protect natural dyes. Avoid harsh chemical treatments and excessive moisture, which can damage the traditional cotton and wool construction of older pieces.

Can I use these rugs on the floor?

Many of these pieces were made for domestic floor use or as furnishings, though fragile kilims benefit from low-traffic areas. Using a quality underlay provides necessary cushioning and prevents slipping. Placing them out of direct, intense sunlight preserves the natural dyes and prevents the wool from drying out prematurely over time.

What is a village rug?

Village rugs are textiles produced in rural communities by independent weavers rather than large urban workshops. They typically display spontaneous, traditional designs specific to a particular locality. These pieces often incorporate charming irregularities in geometry and colour choice that reflect individual maker expression.

How do I identify a prayer rug?

Prayer rugs are immediately identifiable by the architectural niche or arch motif, known as a mihrab, woven into one end of the field. This design guided the user during daily devotions. Regional variations in the shape of this arch help attribute the rug to specific weaving areas like Ladik, Milas, or Konya.