CHINESE RUGS: ORIGINS, TYPES & CARE
Chinese rugs have a long and rich history, dating back centuries. These beautiful works of art are known for their intricate designs, vibrant colours, and luxurious materials. Today, they remain one of the most popular types of rugs on the market, prized for their beauty and craftsmanship.
If you’re considering adding a Chinese rug to your home, it’s important to learn a bit about their history and construction. This will help you choose the right rug for your space and ensure that it will last for many years to come.
Here’s a quick overview of everything you need to know about Chinese rugs:
THE HISTORY OF CHINESE RUGS
Chinese rugs date back thousands of years, with some of the oldest examples dating back to the 5th century BC. These early rugs were made for practical purposes, used as floor coverings and bedding in homes and palaces.
Over time, rug making became an art form in China, with skilled craftsmen creating increasingly intricate and beautiful designs. By the 16th century, Chinese rugs were highly prized by royalty and nobility across Europe.
Today, Chinese rugs are still made using many of the same traditional techniques that have been used for centuries. However, they are now also produced in a wide range of styles to suit modern taste.
THE CONSTRUCTION OF CHINESE RUGS
Chinese rugs are typically made from silk or wool, although some modern examples may also use synthetic materials. The pile of a Chinese rug is created by knotting the yarn around the foundation threads.
This process is extremely labour-intensive, and can take months or even years to complete depending on the size and complexity of the design. As a result, Chinese rugs are often quite expensive.
However, their durability and beauty make them well worth the investment. With proper care, a Chinese rug can last for generations.
STYLES OF CHINESE RUGS
There are many different styles of Chinese rugs, ranging from simple and understated designs to complex and ornate patterns. Some of the most popular styles include:
CHINESE DRAGON RUGS
Dragon rugs feature an image of a dragon, which is a symbol of power and strength in Chinese culture. Dragons are a powerful and auspicious symbol in Chinese culture, and they have been revered for centuries. Dragon rugs often feature intricate designs and vibrant colours, making them a beautiful and eye-catching addition to any home.
While dragon rugs have been produced in many different parts of the world, they are particularly associated with China. Dragon rugs from China often feature traditional Chinese motifs and symbols, such as the lucky coin or the yin yang symbol. These rugs can be made from a variety of materials, including wool, silk, or even bamboo.
Dragon rugs are believed to bring good luck and fortune to those who own them. They are often given as gifts to mark special occasions, such as weddings or the birth of a child
CHINESE FLOWER RUGS
The history of Chinese flower rugs can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907). Flower patterns were often used in Chinese art during this time, and they were also popular among the wealthy elite. Rug makers began to create rugs with floral designs during this period, and these rugs became highly sought-after by the upper class.
Rugs with floral designs continued to be popular in China during the Song Dynasty (960-1279). During this time, rug makers began to experiment with different colours and patterns. Floral rugs became even more popular during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), when they were often used as decoration in palaces and homes of the wealthy.
Today, floral rugs are still popular in China. They are often used as decoration in homes and businesses, and they are also popular gifts. Floral rugs are a symbol of luxury and status, and they continue to be highly coveted by the Chinese people. Flower rugs typically feature images of lotuses, peonies, or other flowers. They are often used to symbolize prosperity and good luck.
CHINESE GEOMETRIC RUGS
Geometric rugs first became popular during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), when they were often used to decorate royal tombs. During this time, rug making was a highly skilled art, and only the finest craftsmen were able to create these beautiful pieces.
During the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD), geometric rugs became even more popular, and were often used in homes of the wealthy elite. They were also frequently given as gifts to important guests or diplomats.
The Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD) saw a decline in the popularity of geometric rugs, as more ornate and floral designs became fashionable. However, they regained their popularity during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911 AD), when they were once again used in royal palaces and homes of the elite.
Today, geometric rugs are still popular in China, and are often used in both traditional and modern homes.
CHINESE LANDSCAPE RUGS
Chinese landscape rugs can also be traced back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907). It is said that during this time, a type of carpet known as the “flying horse carpet” was popular among the nobility. These carpets were made of silk and featured designs of horses in flight.
During the Song Dynasty (960-1279), landscape rugs became even more popular. At this time, they were often made of wool and featured designs of mountains, rivers, and other natural scenes.
Landscape rugs continued to be popular during the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) Dynasties. During these periods, many of the finest examples of landscape rugs were produced.
Today, landscape rugs are still made in China and are prized for their beauty and craftsmanship. Many of these rugs are exported to countries all over the world, where they are enjoyed by people of all cultures.
CHINESE ANIMAL RUGS
Animal rugs have been popular in China for centuries, and their popularity has only grown in recent years. These rugs are usually made from wool or silk, and feature a variety of different animals including tigers, lions, dragons, and phoenixes.
Chinese animal rugs often depict mythological creatures, and they are both beautiful and functional. Many people believe that these rugs bring good luck and fortune, and they are often given as gifts to newlyweds or new-born babies.
CARING FOR YOUR CHINESE RUG
Chinese rugs require special care to keep them looking their best. They should be vacuumed regularly and only cleaned with gentle, pH-neutral cleaners.
It’s also important to protect your rug from direct sunlight, as this can cause the colours to fade over time. If you plan to use your rug in a high-traffic area, consider placing it in an entryway or hallway where it will see less wear and tear.
With proper care, your Chinese rug will last for many years and continue to add beauty and elegance to your home.
For more information on Chinese and Oriental rugs, CLICK HERE
#chineserug #chineserugs #orientalrug #orientarugs #antiquechineserug #orientalrugrestoration #handmaderugs #antiquerug #arearugs #arearug #jamesbarclayrugs #flowerrug