Israeli Rugs – Israel is home to a surprisingly large and well-established carpet-weaving community. Area Carpet weavers in Israel had very serious traditions that were cultural, technical and artistic. For example, the famous Marbediah workshop is named after Marvard, the Hebrew word for carpet, and the Bezalel workshop is named after the legendary designer of the Ark.
These are a few of the diverse ways that Israeli weavers and artists drew inspiration for their work. Antique Judaica rugs and Israeli rugs are full of culture, religion and artistry. They feature pictorial scenes, decorative patterns, symbols, biblical stories and inscriptions.
From famous literary scenes to decorative representations of the Twelve Tribes of Israel and abstract carpets designed by artistYaacov Agam, Israel has a very unique and diverse carpet-weaving industry. It’s not uncommon to see King Solomon, Queen Sheba and Israel’s greatest historic figures depicted in these outstanding Israeli rugs . Over the years, antique Israeli carpets have combined abstract influences, Art Nouveau styles, Arts and Crafts devices, Persian patterns and trendy designs with their own cultural inspiration. The result is a genre of carpets that is distinctive, meaningful and highly original. These exquisite carpets don’t only tell stories through the patterns and scenes they depict. They encapsulate centuries of regional history and culture.
The most well known, collectible Israeli rugs were those woven by art students during the early part of the 20th century in the art school of Bezalel in Jerusalem. Antique Bezalel carpets are surly some of the most artistic rugs and carpets available anywhere.
History and Culture of Israeli Rugs from Bezalel Jerusalem
There is just so much to learn about antique oriental rugs! We have spent years studying. Every time we start with a type of rug, it leads us through history and politics.
One time we started with Bezalel rugs, which have been produced in Israel since the late 19th, early 20th century. This production grew out of a school in Israel by the same name.
Israeli Rug from Bezalel Jerusalem
The history of Jewish rugs and weavers goes back to the beginning of their religion. And because of their forced exodus into the world they have given and taken from many cultures. But this true of the rug industry in general, weavers have been part of cultures that have conquered and been conquered; many have been nomadic cultures.
Maybe that is what is one the of elements that make all antique rugs so interesting; the craftsman can accept and use the designs, and techniques of others, adapting them to their own rug production.
Have you ever wondered why so many antique rugs are asymmetrical? It has a religious origin; both Judaism and Islam believe that only what god produces can be perfect.
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!
