Rug weaving is a worldwide craft. From the Americas to Europe, from Asia to Africa, craftsmen have been crafting wonders for ages. To celebrate rug weavers’ contribution to art and culture around the world, today’s blog will dive into rug inspirations spanning the globe. Specifically, we’ll delve into global styles and patterns from four pivotal areas: Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and East Asia.
European Rugs
The countries of Europe are home to some of the finest rug weavers both in centuries past and in the twenty-first century. For example, France is known for its pictorial rugs that feature still lifes of vases, depictions of people and animals, and more.
Another notable European category is the Spanish rugs. Spanish rugs are known for all-over patterns featuring bold, asymmetrical geometric shapes. Moving further north, a unique design emerges: the Irish Donegal rug. The patterns mirror Turkish rugs, but have a clear Celtic essence that distinguishes them.
Middle Eastern Rugs
The Middle East is arguably the most prolific maker of high-quality rugs. This encompasses types like Turkish rugs and expands to others. This covers both Persian and Oriental and also sought-after variants like Oushak and Heriz Serapi.
Rugs from this zone commonly showcase culturally rich motifs and designs. They predominantly utilize vegetable pigments and organic materials like cotton, wool, and silk. A frequent trait of Middle Eastern rugs is their hand-knotted craftsmanship. Artisans in this region tend to embrace age-old weaving methods to both celebrate their lineage and deliver a prime piece.
African Rugs
While many Oriental rugs originate in England, African regions offer distinct patterns and features. Buyers need to tread carefully when sourcing African Rugs; unless you come to a reputable dealer such as Rug Source, it’s hard to find authentic African-made rugs.
Distinct markers of African rugs include Egyptian cotton or Moroccan wool, vibrant and striking designs, and botanical patterns reflecting the region’s geographic distinctiveness.
East Asian Rugs
Lastly, a renowned hub for rug production is East Asia. Some classify East Asian rugs under the Oriental umbrella, with Chinese-produced rugs often grouped here.
Yet, a prominent distinction is undoubtedly the cultural variances between East Asia and the Middle East. Commonly, Japanese and Chinese rugs showcase unique stylistic choices. Remember, our point about African Rugs applies to East Asian Rugs as well. It’s effortless to stumble upon Asian-inspired replicas and variants, but you should always consult a niche retailer to procure genuine pieces.
Find beautiful rugs from any country at Rug Source!
When your home needs a touch of global flair, only one destination awaits: Rug Source. We stock rug designs from every corner of the planet, encompassing the four areas we outlined and beyond.
Browse our digital shop or drop by our display at 7215 Smith Corners Boulevard in Charlotte to secure your upcoming rug now!