Italian Antique Rugs and Carpets

Antique Italian rugs relied primarily on peasant production that existed independently from Eastern influences and remained in southern Italy and Sardinia. The tappeti abruzzesi were not real rugs but instead used as table and bed coverings. Designs are mainly heraldic with two-headed eagles and the use of religious symbols. Zigzag lines are emphasized in Italian rugs along with the star motif. Other styles used are tapestry rugs that were popularized throughout continental Europe.