Oriental Rug Styles

Oriental rugs are a timeless interior design choice that have been used by cultures around the world for centuries. They come in a variety of styles and designs, from Persian to Tibetan and Moroccan—all of which offer unique aesthetic benefits. There are a wide variety of Oriental rug styles to choose from. Each style of rug has its own unique intricacies and knowing what rug will be right for your space starts with understanding the difference between each type of rug.

Here, we’ll take an in-depth look at the different types of Oriental rugs available and how they can be used to enhance your home decor. We’ll also explore their origins, craftsmanship techniques, materials used, patterns, and colors, as well as the benefits that these pieces can bring to your home. So read on to learn more about these beautiful works of art!

Persian Rugs

Persian rugs are a traditional form of handwoven textile that have their origins in the countries of the Middle East, particularly Iran. In the past, the term “Persian rugs” did indicate that a rug came from Persia (now known as Iran). However, today’s Persian rugs simply indicate that a rug is made in the same way those older rugs were.

The craftsmanship techniques used to create these rugs have been passed down through generations and are still used today. These techniques involve knotting the fibers of the rug by hand to create intricate patterns and designs. The weaves used for Persian rugs are unique to that type of rug, separating it from other styles of Oriental rugs.

The materials used in these rugs vary, but they are typically made from natural fibers such as wool or silk. The patterns and colors used in Persian rugs are typically quite vibrant and bold, often featuring geometric shapes and floral motifs. These rugs have been a staple of home decor for centuries and continue to be popular today for their ability to add warmth and texture to a room, as well as their timeless beauty. Persian rugs are often considered as art, valuable collectible and also hold cultural significance.

Tibetan Rugs

Tibetan rugs are crafted by the Tibetan people in the Himalayan region of Tibet. The craftsmanship techniques used to create these rugs are quite unique and involve knotting the fibers of the rug by hand to create intricate patterns and designs. The fibers are mostly derived from the Himalayan highland sheep wool.

This type of wool is unique to Tibetan rugs, as are the weaves and dyes. The patterns used in Tibetan rugs are typically quite geometric and bold, often featuring motifs like the “endless knot” which holds a strong spiritual significance. The colors used in these rugs are also quite bold and bright, often featuring deep reds, blues, and greens. This type of rug is a true labor of love with each rug typically takes about three to four months to make from start to finish.

Moroccan Rugs

Moroccan rugs have a rich history in North Africa, particularly Morocco. Authentic ones can be difficult to find. While often more expensive than other rug styles, the unique beauty and simplicity of a Moroccan rug are well worth it. The fibers are mostly derived from wool, but sometimes a mix of wool and cotton, silk or other fibers are used.

The patterns used in Moroccan rugs are typically quite geometric and bold, often featuring motifs such as the “tiles” and the “star” that have deep cultural significance. They are often known for their unique patterns and symbols. Moroccan rugs are becoming increasingly popular in home decor because of their unique and vibrant appearance. They can add warmth, texture, and a sense of exoticism to any room. And, because of their unique patterns, they can also serve as a conversation piece.

Ikat Rugs

An Ikat rug is a type of rug that have their origins in various cultures around the world, including Asia, Africa, and South America. The term “ikat” simply refers to the dying process that is used on the rug. The term “Ikat” simply refers to the dying process that is used on the rug. This technique uses resist dying to create patterns where the dye does and doesn’t soak in, similar to tie-dying techniques. This results in a unique and recognizable pattern, characterized by a blurriness of color, giving the impression of watercolor paintings. The fibers can vary, but are most commonly cotton, silk or wool.

Ikat rugs often feature geometric shapes and designs. They can vary in color palettes, some are having muted, earthy colors and some are very bright, with the use of many different colors.  These rugs are versatile and can be used in any room, and also can be as a statement piece or focal point.

Sari Silk Rugs

Sari silk rugs are beautiful rugs that are created in India and other South Asian countries from the scraps of fabric left over from making saris. The silk thread from the traditional Indian sari garment is hand-knotted to create intricate patterns and designs. The sari silk fibers are first cut into thin strips, then hand-spun, and eventually dyed to produce vibrant colors. The patterns used in these rugs are typically quite geometric, floral and abstract, sometimes featuring traditional Indian motifs and designs.

Tribal Rugs

While many people consider Tribal rugs as rugs that just have a “tribal-like” design, they are actually another type of hand-woven rug. They have origins in various cultures and regions around the world, including Africa, Central Asia, and South America. The craftsmanship techniques used to create these rugs vary depending on the culture of origin, but they often involve knotting the fibers of the rug by hand to create intricate patterns and designs. The materials used can also vary, with wool, cotton, and animal hair being commonly used.

The patterns used in tribal rugs are typically quite geometric, bold and often featuring traditional motifs that hold cultural significance and are unique to the specific tribal culture. The colors used in these rugs are typically quite vibrant and bold, often featuring deep reds, blues, greens, and other earthy colors. This type of rug is usually created by nomadic people on portable looms. Because of this, they are typically smaller in size than other rug styles, but just as beautiful!

Gabbeh Rugs

A Gabbeh rug is a type of tribal rug crafted in Iran, which was once Persia. Gabbeh, in Persian, means “raw” or “natural,” and refers to the rough, hardy weave of the rug. These rugs are sturdy and last for years! The fibers used to make Gabbeh rugs are mostly made of wool, the thicker the wool the more durable the rug will be.

Gabbeh rugs are known for their bold colors and simple, abstract designs. They often feature geometric shapes and patterns, and may include images of animals and nature, reflecting the nomadic lifestyle of the weavers. The colors used in these rugs are quite vivid and often feature deep, saturated hues. Gabbeh rugs are versatile and can be used in any room in your house, and also can be used as a statement piece or focal point. They can be used as a floor covering or as a wall hanging. They are also valued for their softness and durability, making them suitable for high-traffic areas in your home.

With so many different Oriental rug styles to choose from, it can be difficult to know which one is right for your needs. At the Rug Gallery, we can help you select a rug that integrates seamlessly into the area that you want to put it in. Contact us today for more information about selecting the right rug style for you.