Choosing The Right Rug
When considering the acquisition of handmade rugs, it’s natural to feel a bit overwhelmed. However, it doesn’t have to be a daunting task. It’s crucial to start by finding a reputable dealer. A trustworthy dealer will take the time to address all your questions and will offer the option to return the rug within a specific timeframe if it doesn’t meet your expectations.
Before delving into other factors, it’s essential to develop an appreciation for antique or handmade rugs. Typically, your initial attraction to a handmade rug will only grow as it ages, given the unique character these pieces develop over time.
It’s important to understand that finding an ideal Handmade rug with the precise colour and design in the exact size you desire can be challenging unless you opt for a custom-made Persian rug. Thus, it’s advisable to consider a range of sizes that would complement the intended space.
Vintage Persian rugs often serve as a cost-effective alternative to new or antique Persian rugs. Moreover, any underlying imperfections are likely to have surfaced through use and cleaning
With antique rugs, the maturation of colour and the softness of wool that come with ageing are unparalleled. In most cases, the longevity required for a handmade carpet to become an antique is indicative of its quality.
A well-crafted handmade rug, whether Persian rug, Turkish rug, Chinese rug, or Caucasian rug, will possess a distinctive character that sets it apart from machine-made or low-quality rugs. This becomes apparent when comparing them side by side.
When considering a handmade rug, one must decide whether they prefer a Tribal rug, Village rug, or City rug.
Tribal rugs typically exhibit asymmetry, with weaving often being done from memory rather than patterns. The weave is not always precise and could even differ in places. It can have abrushes, which are change of colours that arise from the use of different batches of the same colour wool that appear the same but show the difference through years of use and washing. They are often fun pieces with many characterful motifs.
Village rugs, usually woven in homes, offer more order and precision but lack precise symmetry. They often have many different designs and are robust and sometimes heavy pieces. The biggest variety of village pieces belongs to Persian rugs.
In contrast, City carpets are characterized by precision, symmetry, and fine weaving, placing emphasis on design clarity and shape. If you preference in art is Michael Angelo as opposed to Picasso then you probably would prefer City carpets more.
For those considering the investment potential of their handmade rug, it is imperative to ensure the use of high-quality wool, preferably long-yarn handspun wool, and superior dyes, preferably vegetable dyes. Additionally, the condition and rarity of the rug are significant factors in determining its future value, where the expertise of a trusted dealer becomes invaluable.
Ultimately, personal preference plays a significant role in selecting a handmade rug. Considerations such as an all-over design carpet for a dining table or the placement of furniture in relation to the rug in a sitting room or bedroom are subjective choices guided by individual tastes and preferences.
At Sharafi & Co, we are dedicated to assisting you at every step of this process, enabling you to make a confident purchase of the perfect handmade rug that fulfils your requirements, ensuring satisfaction for years to come.
