Area Rug Patterns And Motifs We See In Different Types Of Rugs

Exploring The Different Aspects Of Patterns And Motifs in Area Rugs

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What are the general types of rug motifs and patterns?

People always ask about the different patterns, motifs and designs that they see in the different area rug styles. So lets explore what are the different rug terms when it comes to their patterns and motifs.

Area Rug Patterns And Motifs Explained by Nazmiyal Antique Rugs — Area Rug Patterns And Motifs Explained

What is a rug motif?

A rug motif is a decorative pattern or design that is seen within the design of a rug. A rug motif can be a simple geometric shape, a more complex floral design, animal design, or a pattern inspired by cultural or artistic traditions.

Think of a rug motif as a singular design element within a theme that is repeated or is seen only once. A motif can give the rug deign more meaning or it can simply enhance the overall look and feel of the rug. For example, a rug might have a repeated pattern of flowers or leaves that together create a lush botanical look and feel. Alternatively, a rug might feature a repeating tribal geometric shape, such as a diamond or hexagon, to create a more abstract and primitive feel.

Palmette Motif Deign Of Antique Areas Rugs by Nazmiyal — Different Palmette Motif Deign Of Antique Areas Rugs

Rug motifs can vary in size, color and complexity. These design elements can be used to create a wide range of different styles and moods. Some motifs are inspired by specific cultural or artistic traditions, while others are more abstract and modern. Overall, a rug motif is an important aspect of rug design that adds visual interest and texture to a room. When choosing a rug for your home or business, considering the motif can help you find a rug design that complements your decor and personal style.

What is a rug pattern?

A rug pattern refers to the overall design, arrangement, or composition of design motifs and elements within a rug. Rug patterns can vary widely in style, from traditional and ornate to modern and minimalist. A rug pattern can be created using a variety of techniques, including weaving, knotting or printing. Some rug patterns are created using natural dyes, while others use synthetic materials to achieve a specific color or texture.

The choice of rug pattern can greatly influence the overall look and feel of a room. A bold and richly colored rug pattern can add energy and vibrancy to a space. While on the flip side, a more muted and softer rug pattern can create a sense of calm and relaxation.

Rug With Artistic Rendering Of A Man And A Women - Nazmiyal Antique Rugs in NYC — Artistic Rendering In A Rug Of A Man And A Women

When choosing a rug pattern, it’s important to consider the existing decor and color scheme of the room. A pattern that complements or contrasts with the surrounding elements can create a cohesive and harmonious interior design.

Additionally, the size and scale of the rug pattern should be taken into account. This is because a larger pattern can overwhelm a small space, while a small pattern may get lost in a larger room. Overall, a rug pattern is an essential component that can help create a unique and visually interesting space.

What are some of the rug patterns and motifs that are based on origin or rug type?

Rug patterns can be called by various names. Some of the patterns are named after the origin of the rug and others may be based on the purpose.

Here are a few examples of rug patterns based on style and / or origin:

Oriental rugs: These are hand-knotted rugs that originated in Asia.
- There is no set rule for what an Oriental rug looks like. But the more traditional looking rugs tend to be Oriental in their design approach.
Persian rugs: These are a specific type of Oriental rugs that were woven in modern day Iran.
- Persian rugs are some of the most varied and you can see them with patterns ranging from extremely fine and intricate floral to bold tribal and geometrics.
Scandinavian rugs: These are rugs that were woven in Scandinavia and have a more mid century modern approach to the rug design.
Moroccan rugs: These are hand-woven rugs that were woven in Morocco.
- The rugs from Moroccan tend to be very organic and tribal and most will have a thicker even shag texture to them.
Navajo rugs: These are hand-woven rugs that were woven by Native Americans from the Navajo nation in the southwestern United States.
- The Navajo rugs are almost always tribal and geometric. Some will depict native Americans while others will have a more abstract approach.
Tibetan rugs: These are hand-knotted rugs that were woven in Tibet and / or Nepal.
- These are mostly newly woven rugs and as such, they will have contemporary designs. The older ones are rare but will feature dragons, tigers and other Chinese influenced patterns.
Chinese rugs: These are area rugs that were woven in China and have a distinct “Chinese look”.

There are many other and different types of area rugs with patterns, but these are some of the more common and well-known.

What are the rug patterns called that are not based on country of origin or rug type?

Rugs with patterns can also be classified based on their general artistic and stylistic approach to the overall design.

Geometric Tribal Village Rug Vs Floral City Made Persian Rug by Nazmiyal — Geometric Tribal Pattern Village Rug and a Refined Floral Design City Made Persian Rug

Here are some examples rug patterns based on the artistic style and approach to the design:

Floral rugs: These rugs feature more refined patterns inspired by flowers and other plants.
Geometric rugs: These rugs are based on straight lines and can feature patterns made up of geometric shapes, such as triangles, diamonds, hexagons.
Tribal rugs: These rugs feature more basic patterns of many of which may be rooted in the art history of ethnic groups that created them.
Pictorial rugs: These rugs depict or portray human figures and people as the main focus of the rug design.
Modern rugs: Modern design rugs feature patterns that are more contemporary and abstract, often incorporating bold colors and unusual shapes.
Prayer rugs: These are rugs that have a specific prayer design that Muslims may use for prayers.
Hunting rugs: These are rugs that depict scenes of people hunting.

These are just a few examples of the many different types of rugs with patterns. The style and design of a rug can greatly affect the overall look and feel of a room, so it’s important to choose one that complements your decor and personal style.