Where were these rugs made?

These textiles originate from the Caucasus region, situated between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea. Different valleys and tribal groups produced distinct regional subtypes with recognisable drawing styles. Local weavers worked in homes or small community workshops, passing down specific medallion designs and border patterns through generations.

How do I care for a wool rug?

Regular gentle vacuuming without a beater bar keeps dust from settling into the wool pile. Professional cleaning suited for antique textiles preserves the natural lanolin in the fibres. Keeping the piece out of direct, harsh sunlight prevents the natural dyes from fading unevenly across the field.

Are these rugs symmetrical?

Hand-knotted tribal weaving naturally incorporates minor irregularities and intentional asymmetries in motifs and borders. These variations reflect the weaver working from memory without rigid mechanical aids. Slight curves or wobbles in the straight lines are hallmarks of genuine rural production rather than factory standardisation.

What is a prayer niche?

A prayer niche, or mihrab, is a pointed arch design element woven into one end of specific carpets. It serves a directional purpose in Islamic worship and frames the composition. On the floor, this pointed arch creates a striking focal point that draws the eye through the rug's geometry.