Rugs have been used since before 5000 BC, but the exact time they first appeared is unknown. One theory about the origin of rugs is that they were first made by nomadic tribes. These early versions were made with thick knots and provided protection from cold and damp conditions. Making rugs also meant that these ancient people were not forced to slaughter their animals to use their hides for this purpose.

Over time, these knotted rugs were used to cover the ground as well as to decorate tents used by nomadic people. Colours and designs used to make the rugs unique to the tribe that made them. Weavers would fashion their rugs on a vertical loom, which was used because it was easy to dismantle and transport from place to place.

Another theory is that knotted rugs were developed by tribes of people who had settled into living in a specific location. This population would have the time to make rugs that served a practical purpose, as well as being artistic. These rugs may have originally been used for ceremonial occasions. Over time, they would have become an everyday feature of the home.

Early versions of rugs would have been used as wall hangings and mats. Early designs were very simple. As rug weaving developed, designs became more detailed until they became works of art.

Carpets from the Middle East

In the second and third centuries BC, woven carpets were quite common in the Middle East. This area of the world is known as the ‘cradle of carpet weaving.’ Rug weaving techniques expanded to other countries such as Persia, China, India and Turkestan.

Marco Polo even commented on the beauty of Turkish rugs when he travelled through that country. He stated, "They weave the choicest and the most beautiful carpet in the world. They also weave silk fabrics of crimson and other colours of great beauty and richness and many other kinds of cloth.”

Antique Rugs

A number of antique carpets have a style that is similar to the Persian style of rug. To be considered a true antique, the rug must have been made prior to the 1920s.

Another characteristic of antique rugs is that they are made with natural dyes. This designation is also given to rugs that were made before synthetic dyes were developed in the 1860s.

Rugs made from 1860-1870 and the early 1900s are known as ‘semi antique carpets.’ Persian and Turkish rugs made during this time feature traditional designs and come in a variety of shapes from rectangles to circular rugs.

Modern Rugs

The term ‘modern rugs’ refers to floor coverings made after the 1920s and 30s. Designs reflect modern themes, but at the expense of the high level of artistry which characterized antique rugs.

Designs in Western modern rugs have borrowed from Persian and Turkish rugs. Weavers have also looked to Christian and Islamic culture for inspiration when developing their designs. Modern rugs have also been made to resemble works from other cultures, such as the early Byzantine and Asiatic. Popular colours of recent times include teal rugs and lime colours.
 

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