See the Best Range of Quality Oriental Rugs in our in-store Galleries

Visit the Oriental Rug Shop to view a fantastic range of quality Oriental Rugs & Carpets, including Persian, Afghan, other Tribal styles, and Kilims, as well as an impressive selection contemporary rugs from round the world.

It's easy to lose yourself browsing our oriental rug galleries, and we'll make sure you have as much help as you need to choose the right oriental rug for your home.

Browse the photos on this page to get just a taste of the range of oriental rugs we have on display.

Note that our stock changes regularly, so there will always be something new to view. Feel free to call us on 01246 221585 to discuss what's in store before you visit.

 

 What are oriental rugs?


The term oriental carpet simply means carpet from the East and usually applies to hand knotted rugs that are produced in a wide area stretching from the Bosporus in Eastern Europe to the far China Sea.
                                                                                                                       
The magic and mystery of the orient, its ancient history and its art; its culture and its religions are all embodied in one simple beautiful item – the Oriental rug.

The history of weaving rugs starts with nomadic tribes building makeshift looms and using wool from their wandering flocks of sheep. These rugs were designed depicting nature as seen by the weavers; flowers, animals and trees, or illustrating their culture and religious beliefs with symbols and motifs. The rugs were hung from the walls of tents or huts, laid on the ground or floor,  used as seat covers or saddle bags – simply to sleep, live or to pray on.

Rugs varied in size, quality and design. Nomadic tribes wove smaller rugs than the more settled weavers who were able to work to commercial specifications. Often taking weeks, months or even years to weave, these rugs are regarded as some of the very highest forms of art.

This traditional art of rug weaving still continues today, using almost exactly the same methods of over 2,000 years ago. Many of the old designs and motifs have been handed down through the generations, but today’s events are also depicted as can be seen in the Afghan War Rugs showing tanks, helicopters and bombs.

It is not always possible to say exactly where a rug was made, or precisely how old it is.  Tribes migrate or intermarry and copy one anothers traditional patterns.