Tibetan Area Rugs
Tibetan rugs are generally Hand Knotted in Nepal. They usually have a thicker pile and the wool has a more worn look to it. They still are very luxurious and plush to the touch. The Arts and Crafts Era of rugs is easily found in the Tibetan rug category. These rugs are woven with a distinctive weft and wrapping technique continuous supplementary weft is looped around two warps then once around a gauge rod. After a series of loops are formed on the gauge in the colored yarn desired, the loops are cut and the gauge rod is removed. Rows of cut weft are alternated with multiple rows of ground weft; the result of the pile structure suggests overlapping shingles or lap stakes on a wooden boat hull.
Knot densities vary from 20 to 140 per square inch. Older Tibetan rugs are more coarsely knotted.
Contemporary Tibetan rugs are often sculptured after they are removed from the loom. Primarily now most Tibetan Rugs are created in Nepal by Tibetan refugees. Designs in these rugs are highly variable with few traditional patterns left. Certain colors in Tibetan rugs have been associated with their function. Orange and gold are used in rugs for religious ceremonies. Maroon is often used in monastery floor coverings. Tiger skins were prized by ancient Tibetan nobles and officials, and were once thought of as badges of authority. Modern vegetable dyes are used in these rugs along with the finest Tibetan wools.
The Ruggoddess and her area rug designers can help educate you on the differences in Tibetan area rugs. Our area rug consultants are more than glad to offer in home consultations making it easier than ever to select the perfect rug for your home.