Know Your Rug: Stories, Heritage & Handmade Artistry

Excerpt: Discover the history of Kashan rugs, from Persian workshop traditions and classical medallion designs to wool, silk and hand-knotted construction. Learn what distinguishes Kashan carpets and how traditional designs continue to inspire modern rugs.

Discover the history of Indian rugs, from Persian-influenced Mughal workshops and Kashmiri silk weaving to the wool carpets of Bhadohi and Mirzapur. Learn how Indian carpets are knotted, which materials are used, where they are made and how traditional craftsmanship continues today.

A rug that lasts for decades starts with the right choice. Discover how materials, knotting, construction, weaving traditions, timeless design and proper care can help you choose a carpet that remains beautiful for years.

Distressed rugs bring a faded, time-worn look to contemporary interiors, but not every rug that looks old is an antique. Discover how distressed finishes are created, how they differ from genuine age, and what to check before buying.

Discover how pictorial rugs transform wool and silk into woven storytelling. Explore their Persian history, Safavid and Qajar influences, weaving centers, knotting techniques and the scenes that make these carpets works of art.

Discover how kilims differ from conventional pile rugs, from their flatwoven construction and lack of knotted pile to their rich history across Turkish, Persian, Afghan, Caucasian and other traditions. Learn how kilims are made, what distinguishes their regional styles and what to look for when choosing one.

Discover the story behind Gabbeh rugs, from their tribal origins in southwestern Iran to their thick wool pile, distinctive knotting, earthy colours and minimalist designs. Learn what separates traditional Gabbehs from contemporary interpretations and what to look for when buying one.

Discover the story behind Chobi rugs—from their Afghan and Pakistan-border weaving traditions to Persian-inspired designs, natural dyes, earthy colours, handspun wool and knotting. Learn what makes a good Chobi and how to choose one with confidence.

Why do some handmade rugs have such remarkable colour and depth? Explore the difference between natural and synthetic dyes, how colours change with age, what abrash means and what dyes can reveal about an antique rug.

A signature can turn a beautiful Persian rug into a fascinating piece of history. Learn what rug signatures mean, where to find them, who they identify and how a genuine signature can influence a carpet's collectibility and value.

Has an antique rug been restored? Learn what to look for in the pile, colours, knots, foundation, edges and ends, and understand why professional restoration doesn't always reduce a rug's value.

What lies beneath a handmade rug? Discover how warp, weft and knots create a carpet's foundation, and learn what its construction can reveal about craftsmanship, quality and origin.