How do I clean an old rug?

Surface dust should be removed gently using a suction-only vacuum without a rotating brush bar. Professional textile conservators should handle deeper washing to protect natural wool and historic dyes. Water immersion and harsh detergents can damage the foundation threads or cause fugitive colours to bleed. Regular rotation ensures even wear across high-traffic areas in your home.

Can I place these on wooden floors?

These textiles sit comfortably on timber flooring when paired with a breathable, high-friction underlay. The backing prevents slipping while protecting both the floor surface and the fragile wool foundation from abrasion. Direct contact with modern synthetic carpet backings should be avoided to allow air circulation. Position the rug away from continuous direct sunlight to preserve the strength of the natural dyes.

What is a prayer rug?

A prayer rug is a portable textile featuring a distinct arched design known as a mihrab, which indicates the direction of prayer. Historically, users laid these mats on the ground for daily devotions. Their compact size made them easy to roll up and transport during nomadic migration. Today, collectors value them for their focused compositions and symbolic iconography.

How are different origins identified?

Weavers incorporated specific regional traits, including distinctive knotting structures, characteristic border arrangements, and regional colour palettes. Caucasian pieces often display crisp geometric medallions, while Persian examples tend toward intricate floral curves. Examining the selvedges, fringe construction, and wool preparation provides further clues to a piece's provenance. Comparing the secondary colours helps distinguish between Anatolian village work and nomadic tribal output.