Marbediah Rugs – Operating between 1906 and 1931, and run by Shmuel Ben David, Abraham Bar-Adon and Yakov Controvich, the Marbediah rug workshops in Jerusalem Israel were at the forefront of Israel’s Art Nouveau and Arts and Crafts design movements. This independent workshop of commercial weavers was operated by designers and artisan craftspeople affiliated with the Bezalel Academy, which was responsible for a renaissance of Judaic art. The artisan Marbediah workshop focused on Israel and the Holy Land themes and Art Nouveau rugs incorporating influences from Europe, Persia, the Middle East and the beginnings of Israel, which was not yet recognized as a sovereign nation.
The name Marbediah, Marvadiah or sometimes Morvadia or Mabediah stems from the Hebrew word Marvad, which means carpet or mat. These fantastic rugs depict legends, religious stories and Judaic patterns inspired by ancient artifacts and mosaics uncovered in the early 20th century. Area rugs that are part of this outstanding group of Judaic Art Nouveau pieces are inscribed with the word Marbediah and feature the workshop’s signature camel emblem.
Everything You Want to Know About Rugs and Carpets From Israel
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!