Overview

Saturated tangerine, navy and ivory hues provide an intriguing backdrop for the ornate central medallion and floral pattern in this one-of-a-kind wool rug. Inspired by Persian art, the traditional medallion-and-corner design of this piece have been adapted to reflect the Western aesthetic of large-scale, free-form patterns. Intricately hand-knotted by individual artisans using centuries-old techniques, the vibrant palette creates a vivid composition while preserving the craftsmanship of the original design. This Bessarabian carpet brings a bright bohemian touch to floors.

Finishing:
The finishing of this carpet was done using centuries old traditional techniques. Once its laborious hand-knotting was completed, it was rolled and entirely submerged in a sanitizing bath where its fibers fully absorbed all cleaning liquid. After which it was laid flat on the ground where a team of cleaners used wooden oar-like paddles to push the water through its fibers and draw out impurities. Oar strokes were done in sync to prevent the carpet from getting torn. Each stroke tightened the knots even further. No machines were involved in its washing or drying.

Materials & Craftsmanship:
This diligently hand-knotted area rug is made of 100% pure lamb’s wool. Wool is a natural material, representing a healthy choice that is environmentally friendly with a long list of benefits. The pile of this wool rug is hygienic and non-allergenic, as the natural pile also deters the growth of bacteria and dust mites. It represents a great choice for asthma sufferers due to its natural filtering ability. The rug feels soft under the foot while remaining wear-resistant and long-lasting. With proper maintenance tailored to its needs, this rug can last over 75 years.

Homeowners benefit from an extra grip which is important for balance, good posture, and accident prevention. Moreover, wool rugs are flame resistant. Cleaning is also easier due to a protective layer that pushes dirt up and resists staining. In fact, it will trap dirt and dust until it is vacuumed. A wool rug is also a great option for adding the look and feel of luxury to any space, as wool is a luxurious material.

The dyes used to produce this carpet are eco-friendly vegetable dyes that enrich the yarn with a natural and vibrant luster. Vegetable dyes are also referred to as natural dyes and are superior to "synthetic" dyes. In contrast to rugs woven with synthetic colors, this carpet will last for generations due to the high-quality materials and the skilled craftsmanship invested in it, bringing warmth and elegance to almost any space.

Afghan Rugs & Carpets

Afghan carpets usually refer to rugs traditionally made in Afghanistan. However, many of these carpets today are also woven by Afghan refugees who reside in Pakistan and Iran. Between 1979 and 1992, around one million Afghans, including thousands of rug-weavers, fled Afghanistan during the Soviet Union occupation period.

Afghan rugs are well-constructed, durable and made up of lovely designs. They reflect the heritage of cottage-based craftsmanship passed through generations.

Carpets from Afghanistan can be divided into two categories: Turkmen carpets (also known as Turkoman) and Baluchi carpets. Most of these carpets have more in common with the tribal weavings of Central Asia in terms of color, design and weave than with their Persian counterparts. Contemporary Afghan weavers continue to create traditional rugs with designs passed down from generations passed.

Their carpets are often woven on small portable looms and are mainly produced to adorn their personal homes. Most are made up of Persian knots and many feature vegetable-dyed hand-spun Afghan wool. Some weavers employ yarn that has been dyed naturally however it is common to use pre-dyed wool yarn, which is readily available in the local towns and villages. The pre-dyed wool can be used alone or in combination with naturally dyed yarn. Natural dyes are plant and vegetable based.

Various qualities of pile carpets are available, ranging from coarse to medium in weave, including felted wool carpets (Namads), flat non-pile fabric woven carpets (Kilims), and pile and knotted carpets made from wool, silk, and cotton. The process of creating a hand knotted rug is laborious one that typically takes six to nine months to weave. To learn more about afghan rugs, visit our Afghan Rugs section.

Sources and inspiration: Bérinstain, Valérie, et al. L'art du tapis dans le monde (The art of carpets in the world). Paris: Mengès, 1996. Print.; Jerrehian Jr., Aram K.A. Oriental Rug Primer. Philadelphia: Running Press, 1980. Print.; Herbert, Janice Summers. Oriental Rugs, New York: Macmillan, 1982. Print.; Hackmack, Adolf. Chinese Carpets and Rugs, Rutland and Tokyo: Tuttle, 1980. Print. ; De Moubray, Amicia, and David Black. Carpets for the home, London: Laurence King Publishing, 1999. Print.; Jacobsen, Charles. Oriental Rugs A Complete Guide, Rutland and Tokyo: Tuttle, 1962. Print.; Bashir, S. (n.d.). Personal interview.; Web site sources and dates of consultation vary (to be confirmed). Without prejudice to official usage.