Antique Amritsar carpets are extremely distinctive within the production of Indian carpets. Unlike the carpets of Agra, those produced in Amritsar, in the far north of India near Kashmir; do not represent a continuous production back to Mughal times. They seem to have resulted from a new nineteenth-century initiative under British rule. As such the Amritsar rug weavers were free to approach carpet design more on the basis of western needs than on their own traditions, so their carpets were from the outset well adapted to western decorative use. While their designs responded to contemporary Persian production, Amritsar rugs were generally made with a softer earthier palette, often with a tendency to burgundy or aubergine tones. To this day they remain a superior decorative carpet by virtue of their flexible formal repertoire and coloration.
Amritsar is located in northwest India. Carpet production began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries during the rise of the British supremacy. Due to Western influence and European demand the weavers were very prolific during this period. Designs appealed to Western tastes employing large-scale patterns featuring millefleur (thousands of flowers) motifs. A subtle color palate of light blues, yellow, teal and rust characterize these Indian rugs. Amritsar rugs often have cotton foundations, are double wefted and use an asymmetrical knot. Very good quality wool is used resulting in a luxurious feel.
Featured Amritsar Rugs:
Broad vinescrolls, wide borders and a bold quatrefoil medallion dominate the balanced composition of this softly colored antique carpet from Amritsar.
This luscious Amrtisar carpet is like a ray of sunshine.
This exquisite antique Oriental Amritsar carpet from India has an allover design of classical Persian ogival medallions filled by cloudband palmettes repeating gracefully across the field.
Sienna borders decorated with detailed palmettes surround the elegant arabesque field that decorates this exceptional Amritsar carpet.
An aquatic paradise or marsh scene unfolds with grace and delicacy across the pale tan field of this exquisite antique Amritsar.
