How do I clean an antique woven wool carpet?

Gentle vacuuming without a rotating brush removes surface dust without damaging the antique wool fibres. Professional specialist cleaning remains essential for deep washing to protect the natural dyes. Avoid chemical detergents and excessive moisture, which weaken old cotton foundations and cause colours to bleed. Regular rotation ensures even wear across high-traffic areas in a home.

Can I place these carpets in high-traffic hallways?

Many of these items, particularly hallway runners and sturdy village rugs, served practical floor functions originally and handle moderate foot traffic well. Wool contains natural lanolin that resists everyday dirt and provides resilient elasticity underfoot. Pairing the textile with an appropriate underlay prevents slipping and cushions the foundation against hard flooring. Lighter pieces with silk highlights suit lower-traffic spaces to preserve their delicate sheen.

What is the difference between a rug and a carpet?

Scale and placement generally distinguish the two terms, with carpets typically covering larger floor expanses in principal rooms. Rugs and runners occupy specific zones, hearths, or connecting corridors within a house. Both categories utilise identical hand-knotting techniques and wool materials, varying primarily in their finished dimensions.

How do I identify the regional style of a piece?

Particular geometric motifs, medallion layouts, and border arrangements point directly to specific weaving regions such as Kazak, Hamadan, or Isfahan. Colour palettes, including warm reds and earthy rust tones, often align with the traditional preferences of specific tribal groups. Examining the weave structure and fringe finishing provides further clues regarding whether a piece originated from a village workshop or a nomadic camp.