Historically used as floor coverings and adornments by nomads, clerics and kings, antique persian rugs today inspire a powerful collector following worldwide. With mellow color tones, stunning patina and superb construction, vintage Persian carpets are not only decorative but also make a fine investment.

During the Safavid dynasty and into the early 1800s, weavers began to create “standardized” designs that were replicated and sold in European and Asian markets. This caused a shift in rug making from vernacular craft to a conscious visual art form. As a result, we now have a vast array of styles, colors and techniques that can be divided into several categories. Whether you prefer the formality of city woven rugs or the more rustic, tribal qualities of village weavings, there is a rug to suit your taste and budget.

There is a reason vintage Persian rugs are so sought after – the mellow colour tones and unique designs provide a perfect finishing touch to any room in your home. In addition, their great patina adds an element of sophistication and class to any room.

The history of the Persian rug is rich and diverse, and it is easy to see why they have become so popular. From nomadic tribes to wealthy emperors, the enduring beauty and culturally significant patterns of these rugs transcend generations and withstand the test of time.

Antique Persian rugs are woven using the finest quality materials and artistically designed to create masterpieces that are treasured by connoisseurs around the world. Whether woven by hand or machine, these antique rugs will transform any space into an opulent and elegant setting.

When evaluating antique Persian rugs, the most important factor to consider is the craftsmanship. A well woven rug will have a high knot count and a dense, even weave. In addition, it should have no repairs or tears. A good way to ensure this is by examining the back of the rug. While minor repairs are acceptable, large patches detract from a rug’s true worth and should be avoided.

The dyes that were used in a Persian rug’s fibers were derived from berries, insects and minerals. As a result, the dye recipes were closely guarded as precious tribal secrets. However, with the introduction of chemical dyes to the market in the late 1800s, these natural ingredients were replaced with more modern and readily available pigments. This caused the colors of a rug to change, but the techniques and construction remained the same.

When assessing an antique rug, be sure to examine the back to see the number of repairs and tears. While minor repairs are acceptable, large patches and reweaving should be avoided as they can be a sign of poor workmanship. Also, be sure to check the condition of the edges and corners as these are often neglected. Lastly, it is always best to have a professional rug cleaner clean your rug before installing. This will remove any dirt, dust or odors that may be present and help to protect your investment.