Where were these rugs made?

These textiles were produced by nomadic tribes and village communities situated in the mountainous Caucasus region, located between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea. Individual pieces hail from recognised weaving areas including Shirvan, Kuba, Kazak, and Daghestan. Production also extends to Kurdish groups and neighbouring districts in north-west Persia. Each location developed distinct weaving habits, structural foundations, and tribal motifs that identify the origin of the piece.

How do I care for an old tribal rug?

Maintenance requires gentle, regular vacuuming without rotating brush heads to protect the wool pile from excessive friction. Professional cleaning suited for antique textiles preserves the natural lanolin in the wool. Placing a suitable underlay beneath the textile prevents slipping and reduces wear between the rug and the floorboards. Keeping the piece away from direct, harsh sunlight prevents the natural dyes from fading prematurely.

What is a prayer rug?

A prayer rug is a specialised textile featuring a pointed arch or niche motif known as a mihrab at one end of the field. This design indicates the direction of prayer during ritual use. Despite their original devotional purpose, these pieces function effectively as small decorative wall hangings or accent floor rugs due to their compact sizes and balanced compositions.

How do I distinguish regional styles?

Distinguishing regional types relies on examining the specific geometry of the medallions, the border arrangements, and the palette of the natural dyes. Kazak pieces typically feature bold primary colours and large octagons, whereas Shirvan rugs display finer, more intricate lattice work. Structural details such as the material of the foundation threads and the finish of the selvedges also offer clear clues to the specific workshop or tribal group responsible for the weave.