FAQs

Turkish/Anatolian pieces usually use symmetric (Ghiordes) knots; many Persian use asymmetric (Senneh) knots. Check the back—symmetry and diagonal slanting give clues.

The design originates with Turkmen Tekke guls around Bukhara, but many “Bokhara” rugs today are woven in Pakistan. Expect rows of repeating guls and deep reds.

Hooked rugs developed in 19th-century New England and Eastern Canada, peaking around 1840–1860. Designs often feature florals or pictorial folk art made from scrap textiles.

Braided rugs became a New England staple in the early 1800s, repurposing wool and fabric scraps. Their oval forms suited farmhouse floors and cold climates.

Axminster carpets began in 1755 when Thomas Whitty replicated Oriental qualities in Devon. The brand furnished royal and aristocratic houses across Britain.

Aubusson flatweaves flourished from the 17th century, while Savonnerie gained a royal monopoly in 1627 for knotted-pile “façon de Turquie.” Louis XIV commissions set the style.

Khotan (Xinjiang) rugs reflect Silk Road fusion—Chinese symbols with Persian borders—often 18th–19th century. Common motifs include pomegranates and medallions on sandy grounds.

In the 1920s–30s, Walter Nichols’ Tianjin factories popularized plush “Chinese Deco” rugs. Open fields, saturated dyes, and asymmetrical motifs defined the look.

Mughal emperors established imperial workshops from the 16th century, blending Persian layouts with Indian florals. Lahore, Agra, and Kashmir produced fine, botanically rich carpets.

Tibetan rugs historically served as khaden (sleeping mats) and seat covers, using the distinct Tibetan knot. Modern production shifted to Nepal/India, often with New Zealand wool.

Navajo weaving grew after Pueblo influence in the 17th century and expanded via 19th-century trading posts. Hallmarks include vertical looms, wool warps, lazy lines, and no fringe.

Berber weavings trace to the Atlas Mountains, with thick-pile pieces for cold highlands and lighter flatweaves for desert heat. Beni Ourain examples are often undyed, high-pile wool.