How do I care for an antique rug?

Vacuum gently without using a rotating brush roll to protect the vintage pile. Professional cleaning ensures the natural dyes and wool fibres remain preserved over time. Keep the textile out of direct sunlight to prevent fading. Rotating the rug periodically promotes even wear across high-traffic areas.

What is the difference between a village and city rug?

Village and tribal rugs often feature geometric motifs and spontaneous designs woven from memory. City carpets display precise symmetry, complex floral medallions, and finer knot counts. Urban workshops utilised pre-drawn cartoon guides for intricate patterns. Village weavers relied on tribal traditions passed down through generations.

How can I identify a tribal rug?

Tribal rugs typically exhibit bold geometric patterns, stylized animals, and hooked medallions. The colour palette often incorporates rich reds, indigos, and earthy tones derived from natural sources. Nomadic and village weavers produced these pieces for domestic use or local trade. Consequently, the structures feel slightly less rigid and more idiosyncratic than city-made carpets.

Are these rugs suitable for everyday use?

Hand-knotted wool rugs possess natural durability that withstands regular walking traffic. The lanolin in traditional wool resists dirt and maintains resilience under pressure. Placing an appropriate underlay beneath the rug prevents slipping and reduces friction against the floorboards. This simple precaution extends the functional lifespan of older textiles significantly.