How do I clean an old wool rug?

Regular gentle vacuuming without a rotating brush helps remove surface dust and grit from the wool pile. Professional specialist cleaning remains necessary for deeper maintenance to protect natural dyes and fibres. Water exposure should be managed carefully to prevent dye migration or structural weakening of the cotton and wool foundations. Prompt attention to spills using dry absorbent cloths preserves the integrity of the textile.

Can I place these rugs in heavy traffic areas?

Many traditional wool and cotton carpets were constructed for daily domestic use and handle moderate to heavy foot traffic well. Using a quality underlay provides additional cushioning and prevents the rug from sliding on hard floors. Rotating the carpet periodically ensures even exposure to wear and sunlight over the years. This simple practice helps balance the natural ageing process across the entire surface.

How do I identify a tribal rug from a city rug?

Tribal pieces generally feature bolder geometric patterns, asymmetrical elements, and designs passed down through generations of nomadic or village weavers. These compositions often rely on memory rather than precise pre-drawn cartoons. City workshops typically produced more complex, curvilinear floral patterns with formal symmetry and precise borders. These urban carpets often reflect structured artistic traditions tied to specific regional centres.

What does a medallion design mean?

A medallion design centres around a prominent ornamental motif placed directly in the middle of the carpet field. This central focal point often reflects architectural or symbolic influences specific to the region of origin. Surrounding field patterns and corner brackets frequently complement the central shape to create a unified composition. Weavers utilised these balanced layouts across numerous Persian and Anatolian weaving traditions.