Judaica Rugs Collection of Jewish Carpets

To appreciate Jewish art it is important to understand the relationship between the art, the Jewish religion and the traditions of Judaism. For centuries the Jewish people were wanderers, often oppressed and forced to migrate and live within the civilizations of others. It is this cultural diversity that has inspired and influenced Jewish artisans to produce a vast variety of fine art. Judaica rugs are an example of a uniquely Jewish artform. These antique rugs were not only made in Israel they were produced all over the world such as this fine Kashan rug from Persia or this mid-century Moroccan rug. They often featured Jewish motifs, Old Testament biblical imagery, scenes of the Holy Land and sites of religious significance. They were frequently embellished with stars of David and menorahs. The revival of Jewish life in Israel in the early 20th century led to the establishment of the Bezalel art school in Jerusalem. The goal of the school was to create a Jewish art form that reflected the Jewish experience (e.g. this beautiful rug). The Israeli carpets that were produced at the academy were a combination of Jewish, Persian, Turkish and European styles.