Antique Chinese Rugs
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Showing 1–24 of 33 results
Showing 1–24 of 33 results
Showing 1–24 of 33 results
Chinese rugs, often characterized by their rich cultural and artistic heritage, include several distinct types.
When exploring traditional Chinese rugs, collectors and enthusiasts often appreciate the craftsmanship, symbolism, and cultural significance embedded in these timeless pieces. The traditional designs and techniques used in these rugs make them valuable artifacts that reflect China’s rich artistic heritage.
In summary, the specialness of traditional Chinese rugs lies in their ability to encapsulate cultural stories, convey meaningful symbols, showcase exceptional craftsmanship, and serve as artistic expressions of China’s rich heritage. Collectors and appreciators value these rugs for their unique combination of artistry, symbolism, and historical context.
The Older Antique Chinese Rugs, as opposed to most other productions of Chinese goods, were woven almost exclusively for internal consumption. Since they were mostly sheltered from European and Western influences, this offers us the reason why these carpets have a very unique truly ethnically Chinese look and appeal. In terms of materials, Chinese rugs are often woven from silk, and other materials like wool or cotton.
The art of knotting and weaving carpets was probably introduced in China somewhere between the 15th and 17th centuries. Some of the patterns in these early carpets were borrowed from those same patterns painted onto porcelain and other Chinese art. These carpets showed up in the imperial courts during their time. Today, it’s incredibly rare to find a Chinese carpet from the 17th or 18th century outside of a museum.
Only during the early part of the 19th century did China open their markets to the countries of the west (for rugs since they have been exporting porcelain, bronzes, wooden and other works of art for many years prior to the 19th century).
It is during this period (the early 1900′s and on) that we see a major and unmistakable change in the production, abandoning the traditional ornamental look to a more open and even Chinese Art Deco design. This shift in production brought with it a more commercial approach to the Chinese rug market with less attention to the quality and artistry of every single piece to more mass appeal look and price. This explains why there are so many of the so called Art Deco Chinese carpets in the market today.
To attain the true essence of Chinese weaving one merely needs to compare the pre-1910 production to the later ones. While the textile industry in China is rich in history and centuries old the earliest surviving examples of the craft are believed to have been produced during the time of Ch’ung Chen, the last emperor of the Ming dynasty who died during the first half of the 17th century.
The Ming dynasty which followed survived until the creation of the Chinese republic in 1912. This would be a good time to note that while most antique rugs are attributed to a specific manufacturer or region, authorities and scholars attribute the age vintage of any specific rug to the ruling emperor of the time. In stark difference from the other rug weaving origins, in China, the artistic impression far exceeded the importance of the quality of any said piece, the end result being that some of the beautiful pieces have coarser knotting.
Rich in culture, history and folklore Chinese carpets incorporate design almost never seen in any other type of rug. Dragons, local art and ornamental objects are almost always a trademark of these productions. Some of the symbols used in Chinese rugs have taoistic and buddhist religious origins.
Widely seen in Chinese rug designs, one also finds the Pinyan Wan / Swastika (a symbol that has been associated with the horrible acts of the Nazi party) over 3000 years old this symbol, which even predates both the Egyptian Ahnk, is the symbol used to represent harmony and Dharma, the balance of opposites. Chinese rugs are some of the most collectible rugs in the market today, sought after by collectors and consumers alike. They are widely appreciated for their uniqueness for they truly look like no other rug… instantaneously taking the onlooker on a journey to a place and time that is far simpler calmer than the world we live in today (thus achieving the goal of any truly great work of art).
The different patterns seen in Chinese rugs are also helpful in identifying which region in China the carpet came from. Different regions had and still have different traditions and customs that show through in the ways they decorate their weavings.
When shopping for Chinese rugs, there are several important factors to consider to ensure you make the right choice and get the best value for your money.
By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and purchase a beautiful Chinese area rug that adds elegance and charm to your living space.
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a month ago
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.
4 years ago
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.
4 years ago
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!
a year ago
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!
4 years ago
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!