How do I clean an antique rug?

Professional specialist cleaning is essential to preserve the natural wool fibres and traditional dyes. Regular gentle vacuuming without a beater bar removes surface dust safely. Avoid household detergents or saturation with water, as these methods can cause bleeding in older red and navy dyes. Consult a textile conservator for specific maintenance advice.

Where should I place a runner?

Runners suit narrow spaces such as hallways, entryways, and corridors where foot traffic benefits from cushioned footing. They also work effectively alongside beds or in galley kitchens. Ensure you use a breathable underlay to keep the piece stable on hard flooring and prevent unnecessary friction against the foundation.

How do I identify a tribal rug?

Tribal rugs typically exhibit asymmetrical geometric motifs, spontaneous colour variations, and repeating symbolic patterns woven from memory rather than strict cartoons. Village weavers in regions like Baluchistan, Afshar, and Khamseh produced these distinctive pieces. Look for slightly irregular borders and robust wool structures that reflect nomadic or village working methods.

What causes colour variation in wool?

Natural dye baths absorb differently into distinct batches of hand-spun wool, creating subtle shifts in shade known as abrash. This characteristic indicates traditional dyeing methods using root and plant extracts. Over decades of exposure to light and gentle washing, these tones soften further, adding depth to the red and navy fields.