MondArt - Persian & Oriental Rug Warehouse

Is it true that the design of a tribal rug is woven from memory?

If the tribal rug has been handwoven following traditional weaving techniques, then the answer to this question is a definite yes. The beautiful geometric designs that tribal rugs boast are created from the memory of the weaver. A design or pattern is constructed according to what the weaver imagines in their head, with nothing pre-drawn on paper to follow. This is quite an extraordinary feat, considering that one rug is comprised of hundreds of thousands of knots, each requiring specific placement to create a unique design that varies in complexity. As a result, a handwoven traditional tribal rug is truly one-of-a-kind. Even if a design is passed down through the generations, there may still be variations in the final product created. Unfortunately, such rugs are hard to come by these days, since the concept of the “tribe” is slowly diminishing. Tribal groups who have woven rugs for many generations, such as the Hamedan and Zanjan, are losing their traditionally nomadic lifestyle and becoming more sedentary. This change has altered the techniques of tribal weavers.

Traditional Persian and Oriental pile rugs are handwoven by craftsmen who generally follow a photograph or picture as they weave. This picture, called a cartoon, is a drawn on a graph where a knot on the foundation is represented by a square on the graph. Rarely are they constructed purely from memory, which may explain why designs of these rugs can be far more elaborate and intricate than those that are classified as tribal.

A runner is a rug or carpet designed specifically for a staircase. Longer and narrower than an area rug, runners cover each step and riser of a staircase, spanning the entire width of the stairs or leaving a small portion bare on either side. They extend from the base of the first step starting from the bottom of the riser, to the very top stair. Runners generally measure 66cm to 71cm in width. Because staircases vary in height, most reputable Rug Dealers in Toronto that sell staircase carpeting will cut the runner according to your preferences.

Staircase carpeting is comprised of 4 parts, one of which is optional but recommended: a runner, edging to ensure it doesn’t unravel after being cut to size, padding to place underneath, and finally, a carpet rod at the base of every riser to secure all the padding and runner in place. This rod is optional, but is recommended as it provides extra support and security.

There area  variety of reasons why stairway rugs should be installed on all of the staircases in your home, whether leading up to the second floor or down into the basement:

They protect the stairs. A staircase is the only way to get to another floor, so it’s obviously going to be used quite frequently on a daily basis. Despite the resilience of wood (which most staircases are made of) the steps will suffer from wear and tear. A runner serves as a protective layer, covering the wood of each step so it won’t wear down and get damaged as quickly or easily as when it’s bare.

They make the stairs safer. Wooden stairs (or any type of material constructing stairs, as a matter of fact), can be slippery, and the smoother they are, the more slippery. A runner provides a surface with more traction, reducing the risk of slips and falls.

They reduce noise. Climbing up the stairs can produce a lot of sound with each step taken. This thumping sound can be loud and penetrating, however a runner helps to muffle the noise.

They add extra warmth. We’re not talking temperature-wise (although, technically, it does that, too). We’re talking about the appearance. A bare staircase can look cold and uninviting, but add some staircase carpeting, and it instantly transforms the stairs into something more welcoming and comfortable – exactly what a home should be.

They help complete the look of a space. The staircase is often a negelected part of a home. However, with the right design and style, a runner can make the staircase an active part of the overall look of your home, completing it.

For more information about staircase carpeting, including installation and fixtures, please call Mond’art Persian and Oriental Rug Warehouse at 1-877-RUGS-24-7.

Traditional and transitional Persian Rugs can sometimes be difficult to distinguish. Because elements of traditional rugs exist in transitional rugs, the categories can get blurred.
To the trained eye, the two are quite easy to pick out. Here are some key differences:

Traditional Persian Rugs
1. Although there are variations in design depending on the geographical area in which a piece is created, all feature designs impassioned with cultural and historical meaning. Often, traditional rugs feature beautifully complex designs that can dazzle the eye.

2. A prominent central medallion exists, particularly when the motif is floral.

3. Designs are ornate, with elaborate patterns comprising curved motifs. They may vary in degree of intricacy.

4. Some traditional Persian Rugs are pictorials, meaning that the design is of a scene, often taken from nature.

5. Designs may also be geometric and linear in nature. These are traditional rugs, but usually tribal in origin.

6. The entire design on the rug is encased by a border that is typically ornate.

Transitional Persian Rugs
1. Muted tones in earthy shades and lighter colours are common, however this trait should not be considered a hardfast rule since traditional rugs may also bear the same. Browns and beiges are popular, alone or coupled with earthy reds and blues.

2. While borders and traditional motifs are still featured, large central medallions are not as common and may be smaller and less pronounced. In some instances, no central medallion may appear at all.

3. Floral motifs are quite common, but have a less formal feel as those that appear in traditional rugs.

4. In general, transitional rugs tend to be easier to match – making them compatible with a wider variety of furnishings and decor.

At Mondart, our knowledgeable staff can help you better understand the differences between traditional and transitional rugs, assisting you in finding the perfect Persian Rug for your home or office.

Traditional Kurdish rugs and kilims are woven by the Kurds, a population mainly inhabiting the geographical area known as Kurdistan. Kurdistan extends across 5 countries: mainly Turkey, Iran, Iraq and Syria, as well as a smaller portion of Armenia. This area is considered to be the centre of Kurdish rug weaving, with a majority of today’s production coming from Iran. Because of displacement and diaspora, you may also find Kurdish Rugs originating from other countries outside of this area, a situation similar to rugs of Tibetan and Afghan styles. Some well known Kurdish Rug weaving regions include Senna and Bidjar in Iran, Herki in Iraq, and Hakkari in Turkey.

Kurdish Rugs are  generally considered to be “tribal”, as they are woven mainly by women in tribal communities across Kurdistan. They are constructed with a heavy wool warp and weft foundation and a wool pile comprised of symmetric knots.  Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule. In some instances, goat or mohair can also be used, but these are generally isolated to remote areas. Another exception is the use of cotton, particularly for the foundation in commercial pieces. Fringes are lengthy, providing more protection against unraveling.

Naturally sourced dyes are common in Kurdish Rugs, usually in darker shades that those that appear in Persian Rugs. When washing, these dyes may run and adversely affect designs. To set dyes, you can lay the rug flat in the sun prior to washing. However, hiring a professional rug cleaner is always recommended to reduce the risk of damage caused by do-it-yourself cleaning methods. This will preserve the beauty of the colours, quality of craftsmanship, and the striking angular and geometric designs that are typical of Kurdish Rugs.

Today is Eid al-Adha, a day of great importance to the Islamic faith. It is a time to commemorate the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his the trials and triumphs. To mark this special day, Mondart would like to turn your focus to traditional Persian rugs designated for religious use.

Prayer is an integral part of the islamic faith. Everyday, devout followers prostrate themselves in prayer 5 times a day. This is done only after they’ve washed their face, hands and feet, and to maintain their cleansed state, they pray only on a clean surface – a prayer rug.

Prayer rugs are floor coverings that are used by Muslims any time they pray. They can have a pile, or in the case of kilims, not.

Prayer Kilims
The prayer kilim is flatwoven and usually about 3′ x 5′ for individual use. Larger rugs can measure up to 14′ in length and may be used by several people or be placed in a mosque for decorative purposes. They come in varying shapes and typically feature a mosque archway design at the top, also known as mihrab. The mihrab design is much like an arrow that, when in use, must be pointed towards Mecca (this resembles the arch that points toward Mecca in any mosque).

Please note that not all prayer kilims or rugs have a mihrab, and not all followers use a prayer rug. Any clean surface may be used to pray upon, however the prayer kilim is more closely linked to tradition, particularly in the Islamic societies of Anatolia (mainly modern day Turkey), Kurdistan (mainly eastern Turkey, northern Iraq, northwestern Iran and northern Syria), Khorasan (sections of modern day Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Iran, Uzbekistan,Turkmenistan and northwestern Pakistan), and western Afghanistan.

We’d like to wish all those celebrating, a Happy Eid al-Adha!

Mondart has a vast inventory of Persian Rugs, including a selection of unique War Rugs.

Truly a product of their environment, War Rugs are a result of a centuries-old handicraft merging with modern day politics. Imagine a carpet created following the techniques of yore, but woven with a design that doesn’t feature typical motifs and shapes. Replace a pretty floral motif, pictorial of a forest setting, or even a pattern of simple but colourful geometrical shapes popular in today’s modern carpets, with images of war instead. This is a War Rug.

War Rugs
War Rugs are a fairly new genre of rug, having first appeared after the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979. It is believed that the impact of military combat so profoundly affected craftsmen that they began to design rugs using images of their unstable environment, including various types of weaponry, military vehicles, and maps of the country. Images of important leaders or figures are also featured. These floor coverings may also be called Afghan War Rugs, however the genre has now extended beyond its roots in Afghanistan, referring to any rug that has an armed combat or war-related theme, as well as high profile acts of terrorism (such as 9/11). According to experts, their purpose is to not provide a message. Rather, they simply report what’s going on.

Generally, designs still follow the basic layout of traditional rugs. These rugs may bear a pattern, motif, borders, or pictorial. Many are handcrafted with naturally-sourced dyes.

While still a fairly unknown niche in the rug world, these somewhat peculiar floor coverings are slowly gaining popularity – and not just with self proclaimed war buffs. War Rugs appeal to anyone interested in aesthetically pleasing and functional art that reflects the changing times.

Mondart has a unique selection of War Rugs in Toronto available, handcrafted and of the highest quality. Look for pictures of them on our site in the near future!

Much like other arts and crafts, there’s a lot of talk about antique rugs. Antique rugs are praised for their beauty, resilience and durability -  but how does the industry classify a rug as “antique”?

In the industry, it is common to term any rug produced prior to the 1900s as “antique “, regardless of where it was created or what style it is. In other words, a rug may be considered antique if it is over 100 years old. Aged more than a century, these rugs feature qualities that are paramount at their time. Like any rug, traits may differ according to the weaver, materials and design, but it is almost always the case that the dyes used are derived from natural sources, whether it be from plants, minerals, or animals. We say almost always because synthetic dyes were created in the 1870s and may have been used to colour the fibres of an “antique” rug. However, as any rug aficionado knows, naturally sourced dyes contribute to the beauty of an aging rug while synthetic dyes tend to fade far too quickly and less admirably.

Although antique rugs generally catch a high price, it is unfair to disregard any rug that was produced less than a century ago. Semi-antique rugs (those made from roughly 1919-1939) and modern rugs (after the end of WWII) may also boast a quality in craftsmanship and material that may match or even exceed that of an older rug. In other words, don’t be a snob and try to give all types of rugs a chance, regardless of age. You may be fortunate enough to find a modern day treasure, at a fraction of the price.

Remember: any fine handwoven rug is made to last, and hence, is destined to become an artifact. A rug that was made recently will eventually become a prized heirloom in the years to come, with the right care.

Traditional Tabriz carpets hail from the city of Tabriz, the capital of Eastern Azarbaaijaan (also known as Aturpaatgaan).

Tabriz boasts a long history that dates back over a thousand years, before Islam became the predominant religion of the country. On several occasions, it reigned as the capital of Iran. With a rich and often turbulent history, today, it has become famous for industry and commerce.

One of the primary industries in the city is rug weaving – an industry that has continued to thrive from several hundred years ago. Tabriz is referred to as a centre of rug weaving by Persian rug aficionados, reaching a pinnacle in the 12th to 16th centuries.

Traditional Tabriz Rugs
Tabriz is renown for handweaving some of the finest rugs in the world, with the signature of the mastercraftsman in the border of his creation. A long history of rug weaving has allowed several types of designs and techniques to flourish in the city, making Tabriz rugs quite varied in appearance and quality. Many of the rugs from the city feature designs that are breathtakingly beautiful in their intricacy and colour, some of which may be the intellectual property of a single family that has practiced rug weaving for generations.  Floral motif, vases, pictorials, and palmettes are common, including a central medallion in a few cases. Craftsmen are well aware of current market trends, and as result modify designs according to current tastes.

The dyes used are often naturally sourced, which does not limit their spectrum in the least. In fact, the range of colours is quite broad, including beige and pink to green, brown, and black.

Shapes and Sizes
Most Tabriz rugs are constructed with a fine cotton or silk base and soft wool pile. In the past, it was usual for rugs to have both a silk base and pile. However, today, the pile tends to be pure wool or wool with silk to highlight certain areas of the design. The rug may be woven with a Turkish/symmetrical or Persian/asymmetrical knot.

Tabriz rugs come in many sizes. Surprisingly, they can also come in many shapes, such as squares, stars, diamonds and even circles.

While rugs from the city of Tabriz are known as Tabriz, one may explore further and determine a more specific category for a rug in question. Some subgroups include Ardabil and Haris.