Essential Things to Know About Oriental Rugs

Oriental rugs are a type of rug that originated in Asia and the Middle East. It is an all-encompassing term with varying definitions, which some people also prefer not to use. Alternative words for the same type of rugs include “Persian rugs”, “Islamic carpets”, and simply “knotted pile rugs”, which all refer to the same type of rug. Oriental rugs are often considered to be the best quality.

The countries that traditionally produced or still produce oriental rugs include China, Iran, Tibet, Morocco, and several others across Asia and North Africa, which have been recorded in use for thousands of years. The design of an oriental rug typically includes the following characteristics:

1. Weight: Most oriental rugs feature a dense weave, which is reflective of their origin as insulation for the floors and walls of tribal tents. This insulating effect caused by extra density was also used on the walls of castles and palaces, so weight is a key feature.
2. Handmade: Historical rugs are often expensive because of their incredible craft and immense attention to detail. Oriental rugs were originally only possible to make by hand, which is why they were items typically reserved for royalty and elites of the age.
3. Singular designs: Authentic oriental rugs are one-off items, which is part of the reason behind their rarity. Most authentic rugs have subtle imperfections, even if they follow similar design styles, that make them valuable to dealers and collectors.
4. Symmetrical patterns: Many oriental rugs feature symmetrical patterns, much like patterned wallpaper. This is part of their appeal and often carries a certain cultural or religious significance. For example, patterns may represent the Mihrab of a mosque.

We have many types of rugs for sale that are reminiscent of the oriental rug style, including lots of geometric patterns and Moroccan designs, as well as some superb oriental runners. Browse and buy online with free UK delivery, a lowest-price promise, and flexible returns or read on to learn more about oriental rugs with our expert guide. You can contact us if you have a question.

What are the Main Types of Oriental Rugs?

There are a few different types of oriental rugs to be aware of, including Persian, Turkish, and Tibetan. Within these categories are many subcategories and motifs. In terms of use, rugs were originally for insulating tents in the desert, but these days you see rugs with oriental designs in living rooms, hallways, bedrooms, dining rooms, and many other areas of the home or in public.

What are the Typical Colours Used in Oriental Rugs?

As oriental rugs are such highly-prized items, they often reflect their origins as objects used by regal leaders and members of the nobility. As a result, common colours include red, orange, and even pink. Light blue, navy blue, and black, grey, or creamy white are also common colours - and some will also feature yellow and green. Each of these colours has different connotations, such as wealth for yellow and gold, or blue for piety, an indication of nobility, honour, or a royal lineage.

What Sizes of Oriental Rugs are Available?

There is no set size for an oriental rug. The largest oriental rug in the world was made by Iran’s state-owned rug manufacturing company and lies in the central mosque of Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates. It measures over 130 metres in length and more than 40 metres in width. However, in today’s reproduction market, there are a great many sizes and shapes - from large rectangular oriental rugs to very small and even round ones.

Where Should You Put Oriental Rugs?

When used in the home, genuine oriental rugs are extremely prestigious so it is common for them to take pride of place in a living room or dining room. Hallways are another good place to put them and their geometric patterns make them excellent for runners. Authentic rugs can be quite fragile, so they should not be placed in areas of heavy footfall and will require regular cleaning and maintenance. Reproduction rugs are more versatile and easy to clean or replace.

Buy Oriental Rugs with Free Delivery From Rugs Direct

While authentic oriental rugs will require purchasing from a reputable dealer to make sure they are genuine, and carry a price to match, you can buy beautiful oriental rug designs from our leading rug company. We offer free UK delivery, a range of sizes, and a flexible returns policy.
Browse our rugs with geometric patterns and other types of oriental-inspired rugs, such as Moroccan rugs, and buy online today. We hope you understand the definition, colours, and styles of oriental rugs a bit more now, but if you still have questions you can get in touch.