Rugs are essential items when decorating our home. Oriental rugs are one of the preferred choices among rugs lovers. These rugs have a rich history and are recognized by UNESCO. Isn’t it amazing? But do you know how many types of rugs are available in the market and how to choose which one to go for?
This guide will help you learn types of Oriental rugs, their historical presence and how to choose which one to go for.
Oriental Rugs and its Historical Presence
Oriental Rugs holds immense value within the cultural heritage and historical tapestry of the Middle East, Central Asia, and the Indian subcontinent. Here are some historic facts about these magnificent works of art:
Ancient Origins
The oldest known oriental rug is the Pazyryk carpet, dating back to the 5th century BCE. It was discovered in a Scythian burial mound in the Altai Mountains of Siberia.
Geographic Diversity
Despite being popularly known as "Persian rugs," these carpets are produced in a wide region, including Iran, Turkey, Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, and the Caucasus. Certain cities and regions are famed for their specific styles of oriental rugs, such as Tabriz, Kashan, Herat, and Kerman.
Materials and Dyes
Historically, the primary materials used in oriental rugs were wool, cotton, and silk. Natural dyes were made from various plants, minerals, and insects until synthetic dyes became more common in the late 19th century.
Imperial Patronage
During the Safavid Dynasty in Persia (16th to 18th century), the production of oriental rugs reached its pinnacle. Shah Abbas, a Safavid ruler, established royal workshops in cities like Isfahan, employing master weavers who produced some of the most beautiful and intricate rugs in history.
European Influence
By the 17th century, oriental rugs had become highly prized in Europe. They were often depicted in the paintings of renowned artists such as Rembrandt and Vermeer, symbolizing wealth and luxury.
20th Century Revival
In the early 20th century, there was a revival of traditional rug-making techniques, in response to the Western market's demand for oriental rugs. Governments and organizations in various countries have established schools and cooperatives to preserve the art of rug making.
UNESCO Recognition
In 2010, UNESCO included the traditional skills of carpet weaving in Fars Province, Iran, in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, emphasizing its cultural and historical importance.
These facts merely skim the surface of the captivating and multifaceted universe of oriental rugs. This timeless art form continues to thrive and transform, tracing its origins back to the diverse cultures that span across Asia and the Middle East.
What are the Different Types of Oriental Rugs?
Each Oriental rug is masterfully crafted, infusing every thread with immeasurable patience and unwavering passion. Creation duration varies—smaller rugs take weeks; mediums span months to more than a year. Intricate knotting gives birth to beautiful patterns as skilled weavers come together to create vast rugs. Every finished rug pays homage to the unwavering dedication of skilled artisans, making a lasting impact on the world of art and design. It proudly displays the remarkable influence of time, unwavering commitment, and masterful craftsmanship.
Agra Jaipur Rugs
Originating from Agra and Jaipur in India, Agra Jaipur rugs bear a rich history. Dating back to the Mughal period, Persian craftsmen wove intricate carpets in Agra, where British merchants later blended styles for Western tastes. Jaipur, known for vibrant arts, adds its essence to these rugs. These carpets are akin to vivid floor paintings, handcrafted by skilled artists. Adorned with flowers, shapes, and patterns, they transform rooms into inviting spaces. Stepping on them evokes the feeling of entering an art piece, infusing homes with warmth and uniqueness.
Aubusson Rugs
Aubusson-style rugs showcase a unique flat woven technique, distinct from piled rugs, with a smooth surface. Crafted from natural fibers like wool or silk, these French creations reflect meticulous artistry. Originating from Manufacture d'Aubusson, the entirely hand-crafted method produces exceptional rugs and tapestries, woven like fabric on horizontal looms. These rugs have soft colors and show scenes from nature, like flowers and animals. They're like magic carpets that bring history and stories into your home.
Aubusson rugs are elegant and timeless, adding a touch of sophistication to any room. If you want a rug that's like a beautiful painting under your feet, Aubusson rugs are a perfect choice.
Chinese rugs
Peking Chinese Oriental rugs are prized for unique designs: central medallions, intricate florals, and scrolling vines. Colors like blue, beige, and rust prevail. Crafted from high-quality wool hand-knotted onto cotton or silk, they exhibit distinct textures. Knot density varies (60 to 200 knots per square inch), indicating design intricacy. These rugs blend artistry and quality harmoniously.
Chobi Rugs
Chobi rugs are handcrafted in Afghanistan, often in regions near the Pakistan border. Unlike Gabbeh rugs, woven by nomads on uneven ground looms, Chobi rugs are purposefully created for multi-generational durability. Crafted in towns and villages using weaving machines, they boast exceptional quality. The use of these machines imparts a refined, symmetrical appearance and earthy colors. Apart from Afghanistan, Chobi rugs are also extensively produced in Iran, China, and Pakistan. It makes your room feel calm and close to nature.
Dhurrie Kilim Rugs
Dhurrie Kilim rugs are flat-woven textiles known for their distinctive and intricate designs. Originating from India, these rugs are created using a traditional weaving technique that produces a flat, non-pile surface. They are often made from natural fibers like cotton or wool. Their patterns can range from geometric motifs to abstract designs, making them versatile and suitable for various interior styles. Dhurrie Kilim rugs are prized for their durability and vibrant colors. Thus, making them a popular choice for both decorative and functional purposes, such as floor coverings and wall hangings.
Heriz Serapi Rugs
Originating from the Heriz region in Northwestern Iran, these rugs exhibit a distinctive blend of Persian and tribal aesthetics. They are characterized by bold geometric patterns, large central medallions, and vibrant color palettes, often featuring rich reds, blues, and ivory tones. Heriz Serapi rugs are hand-knotted using high-quality wool and sometimes incorporate silk accents for added texture and sheen. These rugs are treasured for their durability, artistic value, and ability to enhance various interior spaces with their timeless beauty.
Indian Rugs:
Indian Oriental rugs are exquisite, handcrafted textiles that draw from the rich heritage and diverse culture of India. These rugs encompass a wide range of styles, patterns, and techniques, influenced by the regions and traditions within the country. They're made from quality materials like wool and silk. Traditional techniques, such as hand-knotting and tufting, create these functional yet artistic pieces, adding elegance and culture to any space.
Indo Afshar rugs
Indo Afshar rugs are captivating handwoven textiles that combine the intricate motifs and patterns of the Afshar tribe with the craftsmanship of Indian artisans. Known for their geometric designs and vibrant color palettes, they often feature medallions, intricate borders, and tribal motifs. It gives them a vintage appearance. Indo Afshar rugs are made using traditional techniques, such as hand-knotting, and are crafted from high-quality materials like wool and silk. These rugs bring a unique fusion of cultures to interiors, adding character and style to any space.
Indo Bidjar Rugs
Indo Bidjar rugs are handwoven oriental rugs that combine Persian and Indian influences. These rugs have intricate patterns of the Bidjar style with the craftsmanship of Indian artisans. Known for their durability and distinctive designs, they often feature intricate floral motifs and geometric patterns. Indo Bidjar rugs are handcrafted using traditional techniques like hand-knotting, and they utilize quality materials such as wool and sometimes silk. These rugs bring a harmonious blend of cultures to interior spaces, adding both elegance and enduring appeal.
Indo Gabbeh Rugs
The Indo Gabbeh rugs represent a unique blend of Gabbeh tribe aesthetics and Indian craftsmanship, resulting in exquisite handwoven rugs. Characterized by bold geometric patterns and earthy color palettes, they often display abstract motifs and minimalist designs. Indo Gabbeh oriental rugs are created using traditional methods like hand-knotting and are crafted from materials such as wool. These rugs infuse interior spaces with a unique blend of cultural influences, lending a touch of both rustic charm and artistic expression.
Indo Karajeh Rugs
Indo Karajeh rugs blend Persian and Indian designs, fusing Karajeh patterns with Indian artistry. With intricate motifs and vibrant colors, they often feature detailed borders and floral patterns. Crafted using traditional techniques and quality materials like wool and silk, these rugs bring a cultural fusion to interiors, adding elegance and charm.
Indo Kashan Rugs
Indo Kashan rugs are beautiful handwoven textiles that combine designs from both Persia and India. They blend the traditional patterns of Kashan style with Indian craftsmanship. These rugs often have intricate floral and geometric designs in vibrant colors. They're made using traditional methods and materials like wool or silk. These rugs bring a mix of cultures to interiors, adding elegance and visual appeal to your space.
Indo Kerman Rugs
Indo Kerman rugs are intricate handwoven textiles that bring together designs from Persia and India. They combine the detailed patterns of Kerman style with Indian craftsmanship. These rugs often feature intricate floral motifs and vibrant colors that tell stories of gardens and nature. They're known for their intricate details and elegant borders. They're made using traditional methods and materials like wool or silk. Indo Kerman rugs add a mix of cultures to interior spaces, adding beauty and sophistication.
Indo Nain Rugs
Indo Nain rugs are exquisite handwoven rugs that blend designs from both Persia and India. They merge the sophisticated patterns of Nain style with the exquisite craftsmanship of India. These rugs often feature intricate floral and medallion designs in soft colors. These rugs often have a special central design that stands out, surrounded by intricate borders. They're made using traditional methods and materials like wool or silk. Indo Nain rugs bring a fusion of cultures to interiors, adding luxury and refinement to your space.
Indo Tabriz Rugs
The Indo Tabriz rugs beautifully merge the exquisite designs of Tabriz rugs of Iran and India. These rugs often feature detailed floral motifs and rich colors. They're known for their central medallions that stand out, surrounded by elaborate borders. They're made using traditional techniques and materials like wool or silk. Indo Tabriz rugs bring a fusion of cultures to interiors, adding elegance and artistic beauty to your space.
Indo Viss Rugs
Indo Viss rugs intricately blend Persian and Indian designs, fusing Viss patterns with Indian craftsmanship. These rugs often feature bold geometric patterns and rich colors and often feature vibrant floral motifs. They are made from high-quality wool or silk using traditional techniques. The Indo Viss rugs offer a delightful fusion of cultures to enhance the beauty of your home interiors. These rugs exude an aura of elegance and artistic allure, imbuing your living spaces with charm and visual appeal.
Kazak Rugs
Kazak Rugs are special woven mats from the Caucasus region. They stand out with bright colors and strong shapes, like tribal patterns in the middle and geometric designs with detailed edges. These rugs are usually made from strong wool, which makes them last a long time, thus known for their durability and vibrant hues. Kazak Rugs have a rich history and show the artistic styles of the area. They add a touch of culture and beauty to the rooms.
Leather & Faux Leather Rugs
Leather and faux leather oriental rugs combine traditional designs with real or imitation leather material. They showcase intricate patterns, adding a unique touch to the interiors. Genuine leather rugs use real animal hides, while faux leather rugs imitate the look. They're known for their durability and elegance. These rugs merge cultural richness with tactile appeal, creating distinct and eye-catching decor.
Mamluk Rugs
Mamluk oriental rugs are intricately woven rugs that draw inspiration from the historical Mamluk dynasty (Ancient Egypt). These rugs feature distinct geometric patterns and vivid colors. They often showcase intricate shapes and motifs, creating a captivating visual appeal. Mamluk oriental rugs bring a blend of history and artistic design to interior spaces, adding both cultural richness and aesthetic charm.
Moroccan Rugs
Moroccan rugs are unique woven rugs that originate from Morocco in North Africa. Known for their distinctive tribal designs, these rugs often feature geometric patterns, bold colors, and intricate motifs. They are traditionally handmade by skilled artisans using techniques passed down through generations. Moroccan rugs come in various styles, including Beni Ourain, Boucherouite, and Azilal, each with its own characteristics. Not only do these rugs bring cultural heritage to interior spaces, but they also fill rooms with warmth, texture, and an unmistakable global style.
Needlepoint Rugs
Needlepoint oriental rugs are carefully made using a special stitching technique. They have intricate designs inspired by oriental styles. Using nothing but needles and thread, skilled artisans meticulously sew intricate patterns and vibrant colors that resemble awe-inspiring paintings. These masterpieces depict a myriad of subjects, ranging from beautiful flowers and majestic animals to breathtaking landscapes and captivating scenes from enchanting stories. These rugs add artistic beauty and oriental charm to rooms.
Oushak Rugs
Oushak rugs are unique woven textiles that come from Oushak in Turkey. They're known for their soft color palettes, floral intricate patterns and distinctive designs. These rugs are renowned for their class and elegance. Oushak oriental Rugs are traditionally handcrafted by skilled artisans using techniques that have been passed down through generations. They add a touch of cultural heritage and artistic elegance to interior spaces, making them a sought-after choice for enhancing the beauty of any room.
Peshawar Rugs
Peshawar rugs are woven by hand in Pakistan's city of Peshawar. They have intricate designs that mix old and new styles. These rugs use soft colors and unique patterns like flowers and shapes with ancient tales written all over them. Made from good-quality wool, skilled artisans use traditional methods; they are known for their quality and toughness. Peshawar Oriental Rugs add cultural charm and beauty to rooms, making them a favorite for decorating spaces.
Sumak Rugs
Sumak rugs are special woven mats with origins in the Middle East and Central Asia. They're known for their flat, tapestry-like texture and vibrant designs from the Caucasus region that create reversible designs. These rugs are often created by tightly weaving colored threads to form intricate patterns, resulting in a durable and visually striking piece. Sumak Oriental Rugs add a touch of cultural heritage and artistic flair to interior spaces, making them a distinctive choice for decorating rooms.
Tibetan Rugs
Tibetan rugs are special woven mats from Tibet in the Himalayas. They have unique designs that often show symbols from Tibetan culture. These rugs are made from good-quality wool and natural dyes, reflecting the connection to nature in that region. They're known for their unique textures and soothing colors. Tibetan Oriental Rugs bring culture and artistic beauty to rooms, making them a great choice for decorating.
Turkish Rugs
Turkish rugs are uniquely crafted mats that originate from Turkey. Known for their beautiful designs and vibrant colors, these rugs often feature intricate patterns and symbols that reflect Turkish culture. Turkish Oriental Rugs are traditionally made by hand using techniques passed down through generations. They bring a touch of culture and artistic beauty to rooms, making them a popular choice for decorating spaces.
How Imperial Persian Rugs Can Help in Selecting the Best Oriental Rugs for Your Home?
At Imperial Persian Rugs, we're proud to be the exclusive distributors of a stunning collection featuring over 10,000 exquisitely designed oriental rugs. Our range offers a perfect fit for any living space, whether it's a large living room or a cozy bathroom. With more than 26 varieties of oriental rugs to explore, our online portal provides an easy-to-navigate interface, allowing you to shop comfortably from your own home.