A guide to oriental classic rugs

Oriental classic rugs offer the perfect first step into the world of traditional rugs. Sourced from the heart of Asia — including India, Pakistan and Afghanistan — they showcase centuries of rich cultural heritage. Each rug is meticulously hand-knotted, ensuring exceptional quality and a timeless appeal. With a range of traditional, contemporary and transitional designs and styles, these rugs effortlessly complement a wide range of interior styles.

What are oriental classic rugs?

Hand knotted oriental classic rugs embody centuries of traditional rug-weaving history. They’re beautiful, handmade carpets from countries like Turkey, India, Afghanistan and China. Classic oriental carpets are known for their intricate patterns and vibrant colors. that can add a touch of elegance and warmth to any room.

Oriental classic rugs are not just for show; they’re also durable and can last for generations. Typically made from high-quality wool, they’re handmade by skilled artisans and rug weavers using traditional techniques that have been passed down over time.

What are some of the most popular types of oriental classic rugs?

Each oriental classic rug tells a unique story, reflecting the traditions, beliefs, and artistic heritage of the region from which it originates. As you delve into the world of classic oriental carpets, you’ll discover a fascinating range of styles, techniques and materials. Below, we’ve laid out some of the most popular types and styles.

Shabargan

Shabargan rugs — a relatively recent addition to the world of rug weaving — are meticulously hand knotted by Uzbeks in northern Afghanistan. The Uzbeks settled here in the late 16th century and are famous for their high-quality textiles. Shabargan rugs are very durable and made using high quality wool. The unique combination of master dyers and weavers from Afghanistan creates a rug with a strong personality. Large and unusual floral designs are developed together with simple characters of people and animals, to give harmony in the carpets.

Khal Mohammadi

Khal Mohammadi rugs are typically hand knotted by Turkmenians in northern Afghanistan. However, in some cases, they can also be hand knotted in Pakistan by the Turkomans who have crossed the border. Traditional Khal Mohammadi carpets have an elephant foot pattern and are renowned for their beautiful red nuance. These rugs are also very durable, made from the finest-quality Afghan wool.

Moud

Moud is a small town south of Mashad, in the Khorrasan Province. Moud rugs are characterised by homogeneity in patterns and quality. Warp and weft are cotton, and the pile is made from wool. These carpets often feature the Herati-pattern, both with and without a medallion, and usually use blue or white nuances as a base colour. Moud rugs offer a harmonious blend of traditional and modern design elements, making them a popular choice for those looking for timeless beauty and exceptional craftsmanship.

Kazak Fine

Produced in workshops in Afghanistan, Kazak Fine carpets are easily recognised by their distinct patterns inspired from Russian and Caucasian geometric motifs. The wool’s warm and strong tones come exclusively from natural plant dyes with red, indigo blue and off-white as the most common colours. Before the wool is used in the rug, it’s spun rapidly, resulting in a thin and very durable rug. These rugs are also stonewashed which gives them their unique glossy character.