African Rugs and Textiles – Textile weaving has been an important part of various African civilizations for millennia. The ancient Egyptians were some of the first people to use the loom, around the year 4000 BC. In most regions, the labor was split between the sexes: the women would dye and spin the thread, while the men would do the actual weaving. The rugs of North Africa, including Moroccan and Tunisian, are particularly famous, though many other African societies have created unique textiles that have warranted global attention.
Rugs woven by the Berber people of Morocco are particularly popular on the international scene. These Moroccan rugs traditionally were made of wool from black and white sheep, and the materials they used were not dyed. They often told a story about the weaver’s life while also serving a practical purpose, helping to keep their owners warm during the cold nights they would spend on the Atlas Mountains.
Many African societies used textiles as a means of communicating messages, weaving historical stories and conveying symbolism. The Ewe would weave Kente cloths that had particular meanings depending on the colors used, for example. Similarly, Andinkra fabrics had symbols stamped on them using black ink. Each of these symbols held a specific meaning, and together would convey a message or story to anyone who could decipher them. With such a long history of textile-weaving and such a diversity of cultures, it is no wonder that the continent of Africa has produced so many different symbolic interpretations of this ancient art form.
African Influenced Interiors and Decors
African Influenced Interiors – Bright colors and animal imitations are no longer featured in the far-away villas of vacation homes. Now, African influenced style is showcasing in eclectic interiors everywhere, adding elements of exotic sophistication to modern residences.
“In 2013, African influences are said to be a major trend,” says architecture and design weblog, Freshhome. Among their top 10 most talked about interior design trends, African stands out stands out for their “particularly dynamic and ‘exotic’ features.”
The movement pulls sculpture, wallpaper, antique rugs and ritual art into the home. But, the most compelling characteristics are the bold hues and competing patterns that define African design.
In African culture, colors and patterns hold symbolic meaning. They are emblematic of the land and beings around tribes. According to African legend, the very first textile design was a spider web pattern, a mirror of what two boys witnessed in action and recreated in print.
African Influenced Interiors
Today, African influences hold less of this traditional meaning, but their essence remains the same. The mixed motifs and textures they add to a space brings out feelings of nature and project a calm, international presence.
Beyond the psychological comfort African influences bring to the home, is the trend’s versatility. From a single animal rug, to rooms of full-on safari chic or scattered with tribal pieces, African influenced style works with any and every interior design.
Twenty or so years ago my father gave me a beautiful antique Persian rug - after so many years (and kids and pets) it needed some TLC, so I brought it to Nazmiyal. I just picked it up today and - wow! They got the stains out entirely and the entire rug is brighter; they also made some repairs - it's back in my living room and looks fantastic, and the bill was lower than I'd expected. Overall it was a great experience - the people are wonderful, the work was perfect, and I saw so many beautiful rugs at their store that I found myself wishing for a larger apartment. Next time I need any work done on a rug, or find an open bit of floor I know where I'll be heading.
It is always a delight going to the Nazmiyal showroom. This Qashqai is one of several purchases made over the years, and mom is truly enjoying it. Jason and the staff are very knowledgeable and friendly. They listen to the customeru2019s needs. When I go to the showroom, it is like visiting my family because we have the same appreciation for the textile arts.nnOriental carpets are a rare discipline to be educated in, because you canu2019t go to a university to have certain types of training and experience, such as knowing the cultures and processes of carpet weaving. Jason has such a refined eye that he can distinguish a good rug from a great rug, and that knowledge is offered to the customer to elevate their point of view.nnComing here has been an initiation into a world of culture, art, and beauty which has sustained me, and for that I am grateful.
Loved my runner rug purchase from Nazmiyal. Love the ability to purchase, try and return if it didn't work out! I had it shipped to California and everything worked out beautifully!
NAZMIYAL is the best source for antique and vintage rugs and carpets. Staff is extremely knowledgeable, Jason himself is an amazing dealer who handpicks each and every piece in his stunning collection and is happy to educate the consumer, not just make a sale. I always trust his experience and great eye for all my spaces!
I had an absolutely wonderful experience working with Nazmiyal. I was very impressed by their selection, the quality of their beautiful carpets, and their extremely reasonable prices. Really I cannot say enough about how helpful everyone at the gallery was - especially Omri, work with him if you can! - and how happy I am with my new antique rug. Five stars, highly, highly recommended!
