The Patina
In a world that often prioritises the new, few things age as gracefully — or gain as much character — as a handmade antique rug. Over decades, these woven masterpieces develop a gentle, luminous surface known as patina, making them even more desirable to collectors, designers, and those who appreciate timeless craft.
At Sharafi & Co, we believe that age is an asset. In this article, we explore how the passage of time enhances the beauty, softness, and value of antique and antique-finished rugs.
🧶 What Is Patina in Antique Rugs?
Patina is the softening of colour, texture, and surface that happens as a rug naturally wears over decades. It’s not damage — it’s depth. True patina reflects history, use, and craftsmanship.
You’ll notice:
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Gently faded colours from light and age
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Worn pile revealing the intricacy of the design
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Natural sheen from lanolin-rich wool that’s been polished by use
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A supple, relaxed structure from years of being lived with
This is the rug equivalent of leather gaining a burnished glow or wood darkening to a richer tone.
🎨 Why Patina Adds Value, Not Wear
Many of the world’s most desirable rugs — including Persian Serapis, Sultanabads, Oushaks, and Arts & Crafts carpets — are prized specifically for their patina. In the antiques world, patina is a hallmark of authenticity and longevity, not imperfection.
A well-aged rug:
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Feels softer and more luxurious underfoot
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Sits more naturally on the floor (less curling)
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Harmonises effortlessly with modern, minimalist, or rustic interiors
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Shows off its handmade details more clearly
🖼 How Designers Use Patinated Rugs in Interiors
Today’s top interior designers often favour low-pile antique rugs with patina to add:
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Warmth and soul to a modern space
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A sense of heritage in new builds
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Quiet sophistication to minimalist rooms
The faded tones of a patinated rug are incredibly versatile — from washed-out reds and peaches to muted blues and earth tones, they complement nearly every palette.
🛠 Can You Fake a Patina?
Yes — but it takes expertise. At Sharafi & Co, our antique-finished rugs are new pieces that have been aged by hand, using:
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Natural sun exposure
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Gentle washing techniques
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Controlled pile shaving
The result is a rug that looks and feels antique — with all the softness and subdued beauty of time — but with modern durability and sizing options.
🧼 Caring for Rugs With Patina
Patinated rugs are often lower in pile and more delicate. They should be:
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Vacuumed gently (no rotary brushes)
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Cleaned by specialist rug cleaners only
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Kept away from moisture and high-traffic wear
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Stored rolled (never folded) with moth protection
We offer museum-standard antique rug cleaning in London to maintain your rug’s condition while preserving its patina.
🏺 Shop Rugs With Natural or Antique Finish Patina
At Sharafi & Co, we curate one of the UK’s finest collections of:
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Naturally aged antique rugs
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New rugs with antique finishes
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Low-pile, subtly faded carpets perfect for modern homes
Browse our collection or visit our London showroom to experience the texture and nuance of patinated rugs in person.
🛍 View Our Antique & Antique-Finished Rugs
[📞 +44 (0)20 8735 0701]
[✉️ info@sharafiandco.com]
