How do I clean an old wool rug?

Gentle surface brushing and professional specialist washing remove embedded dirt without disturbing the natural wool fibres. Avoid harsh chemical detergents that strip natural oils from the yarn. Regular careful vacuuming without a rotating beather bar keeps dust from settling deep into the foundation threads.

Are these carpets suitable for heavy traffic?

Traditional wool and cotton construction provides strong natural resilience against daily wear in active household spaces. Heavier room-sized carpets handle living areas and dining rooms effectively. Placing a quality underlay beneath the rug prevents sliding and cushions the foundation against hard flooring.

How do I identify a tribal design?

Tribal rugs typically feature bold geometric medallions, repeating hooked motifs, and rectilinear field patterns rather than curved floral sprays. These designs reflect regional nomadic heritage passed down through generations of weavers. City workshop pieces display more intricate curvilinear patterns, while village carpets bridge both styles.

What is a prayer rug format?

Prayer rugs traditionally incorporate a distinct mihrab or architectural arch design at one end, indicating the direction of prayer. These smaller formats were easily portable for daily devotional use. Collectors appreciate them for their focused iconography and often highly detailed border bands.