Antique Chinese Peking Rugs
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Learn More About Antique Chinese Peking Rugs and Carpets
Antique Peking rugs and carpets are basically a newer subset of the antique rug production that started in China shortly after the end of the First World War. During this period, Chinese rug weaving factories relocated from Ningxia, as well as other carpet weaving centers, to the Chinese capital.
This move enabled the Chinese Peking rug and carpet weaving to produce bigger rug sizes that were meant fulfill the demand for decorative larger room size rugs that came from both the USA as well as European markets.
Peking rugs could adhere to the traditional patterns derived from Ningxia production. But at times the designs became simpler and asymmetrical, often tending toward modern western Art Deco taste, and the weaving technique became thicker and tighter to make the rugs more durable for western use.
The Antique Peking Rugs From China
Most people are surprised to learn China’s textile industry dates back hundreds of years. Some of the very first woven carpets were created by tribes of the Sinkiang and Ninghsia regions in western China. Even though they were created centuries ago, China did not start exporting their high-quality, beautiful, and fine rugs to western part of the world until the early 20th century.
The origin of the Peking rug is very interesting. Chinese, or Peking, rugs were created in a similar manner as the rugs created in Persia, India, and Central Asia. The technique involves weaving sheep’s wool that was then hand-knotted onto vertical looms. In some instances, these antique Peking rugs were created completely out of silk or silk pile or the hair of goats, camels, and yaks were used to weave the beautiful antique rugs.
Many experts would use Turkish rug knots along the border of the rug. Persian rug knots were used for the field. The pile was usually long while the knotting was long, averaging between 30 60 knots per square inch / KPSI coarse. This caused the yarn to twist loosely, opening at the ends and spreading into tufts to create a denser surface.
The colors of antique Peking rugs are definitely unique, especially when compared to other eastern parts. Most Peking rugs have a limited color palette, consisting of maybe two colors in total. Detailing can be added to the surface, adding a bit more definition that helps create a three-dimensional look. Popular designs that may be found on these antique Chinese rugs include Asian dragon designs, octagon shapes, or lotus flowers.
Production of Antique Chinese Peking Rugs
There are many ancient carpets still in excellent condition today. These carpets were created during the Chen Dynasty. Also known as the Southern Chen dynasty, these carpets date back to 557 – 589 AD. It is standard to date or classify carpets and other textiles according to the dynasty that ruled during their creation.
The production of Peking carpets started to flourish during the mid-19th century. This increased production and popularity could be due to three emperors – Ch’ien Lung, Chia Ch’ing, and Tao Kuang.
During the Saint Louis International Exhibition in 1903, Chinese carpets were highly recognized and awarded a first-place prize, inducing a great deal of appeal and interest in America for the first time. Once the rugs became popular in America, Beijing and Tianjin areas of China grew an intense desire to handcraft the rugs, creating a large and profitable industry.
By the 1920’s, Tiensin and Peking rugs became “all the rage” in the United States.
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!