Rugs have been covering our floors since the Stone Age, when the skins of large predators were used to cover the floor in early caves, and although they are still popular today, the way they are made differs greatly. A rug can vary in size from a small piece, less that one square metre, to a 10m x 10m giant that takes years to weave. The oldest rugs found date back to 7,000BC, to the Neolithic Age, and if we were to consider why the people created them, it could be for a number of reasons.
Nomadic Tribes
One theory is that the people were on the move, following animal herds, as they migrated either north or south to find better grazing. They developed a tent type abode with animal skin as the floor covering, and the rugs they used were finely decorated, although the main purpose was to keep the settlers off the ground. It is also noted that the people wove on a vertical loom, which made the rugs easier to transport.
The Middle East
This region was believed to be the first to make commercial carpets and rugs around 3,000 years ago, and these craftsmen spread across Asia and India, taking with them the skill to weave carpets. Within a thousand years, carpet weaving had taken hold on most Asian cultures, with India and Pakistan becoming avid carpet weavers. The Chinese also made headway in the carpet weaving industry, and have created their own unique blend of carpet and rug that is much sought after worldwide. Red rugs have become the cultural norm for China, and look stunning with a deep red pile and a stunning background.
The Persian Empire
This period saw rapid development in carpet weaving, with elaborate designs and larger pieces being made. They developed the dyeing process and used intricate weaving configurations, which were handed down to later generations and they eventually found their way to Mongolia, where once again a new variation was created.
The Mongolian Style
Due to their nomadic lifestyle and the freezing conditions, the Mongolians quickly developed rugs and carpets, and when the 12th century conqueror, Genghis Khan arrived, he encouraged the development of carpet weaving. This style was different to others, as the weave was very fine, and this of course produced detailed patterns and motifs, and with the excellent raw materials they had, carpet weaving just got better and better.
Modern Rugs and Carpets
Machines now make carpets and rugs, but people still prefer the handmade traditional carpets that were made by the skilled workers in years gone by. If you are looking for real quality at affordable prices, simply contact for a range of rugs that fit into every design concept.
Antique rugs are a good investment as prices continue to rise, and even recent examples that are well made, will increase in value, if they are well-maintained. If you fancy a tough of the Middle East in your lounge, talk to an online rug supplier for the very best deal.
