Camel Hair Rugs

Here you can brows through our collection of antique Camel hair rugs:

The Rarity and Beautiful Of Antique Camel Hair Rugs

Unfunded camel hair rugs are some of the most exquisite carpets around. The rarity drives the popularity of these antique collectibles. There was only a handful made because of the problematic nature of creating such a masterpiece.

These handmade treasures originated in the mountain ranges of Northwest Persia. Various tribes in the region came together to form rug weaving communities to create these works of art.

Camel Hair Rugs by Nazmiyal Antique Rugs in NYC

Camel Hair Rugs

The Camel Hair Rug History of Perfection

Most camel hair rugs found today were woven anywhere from 1910-1930, though some date back as early as 1850. The later carpets don’t have the impeccable quality that was found in the earlier pieces, and they also lack the inspiration and aesthetics.

There were only a few regions that could weave these astounding pieces. The wilderness territories in the northern part of the country, such as Bijar, Bakshaish, and Malayer, get most of the credit for these creations. However, there were also some tribes near the Caucasus Mountains that engaged in camel hair rug making too.

Camel Hair Rug Color Variations and Aesthetics

One of the most unique aspects of the camel hair rugs is that the weaver often used the hair of their own animals. They would spin the camelhair into a soft yarn that had a radiant earthy tone. It’s not always easy to work with such an exceptionally soft yarn, and many equate it to the texture of lamb’s wool. However, the yarn is incredibly strong and perfect for the needs of a resilient rug.

When it comes to color markings, the wide variety delivered by these animals is surprising. Although the color of a camel’s hair is known for its neutral hues, within that classification comes a great deal of variation. These carpets have colors such as walnut, chocolate brown, wheat, and blonde. Weaving these different hues together creates an astounding product.

These antique Oriental carpets can be found in various dimensions that include an area rug, runner, wide runner, and room size. The standard room size often found is 7×12 ft or 10×14 ft. Large size carpets in the 12-18 ft category are scarce due to the complexity involved in weaving something so large. Small area rugs can be found in 3×5 ft and 5×7 ft lengths. When it comes to runners, they are often 3×9 ft and 4×16 ft, though wider runners can reach up to 12 ft in length.

Design Characteristics of Antique Camel Hair Rugs

Perhaps the most stunning features of the camel hair rugs are their design characteristics. Some have spaciously drawn geometric designs, which help to irradiate the color variations. Conceivably, the unembellished border is one of the most unique features. Some say that it creates a look that two rugs are joined together in perfect harmony.

Traditional antique carpet designs contain the use of a delicate geometric latticework. Using this pattern gives a stunning background that enhances the overall theme of the rug. To add a decorative element, they often used centrally positioned diamonds as well as animals and humans. Each piece was unique, and they often created exclusive symbolic carpet designs for an individual’s preference.

Regional Beauty Of Camel Hair Rugs

Though the camel hair rugs have similar characteristics, each region was known for its unique style. A camel hair rug has grace and sophistication that is unmatched from other Oriental rugs. When it came to the carpets designed in the Serab area, they were known for the fine details that included elaborate knotting and subtle lines. Their time-consuming attention to every aspect is easy to see in the finished product.

Persian Camel Hair Malayer Rugs

The Malayer region created masterpieces that were like those woven by the people of Serab. Most were unable to tell the difference between their work, but to the trained eye, there were subtle variances. For instance, the Malayer tribes used hues of rust, and they also incorporated festive shades of yellow and green. The weave pattern was also a bit dissimilar with a heavier consistency. Finally, the back of the carpet also offered some differences. Their pieces are known for having a large cotton band that goes in between the knots, which differentiates their work from other weavers.

Persian Serab Camel Hair

The Persian antique rugs made by the people of Serab were highly collectible. Word spread through the 19th century and 20th century of their fabulous work. People became enthused with the soft palette of colors. While Western cultures used darker colors, those deep hues were unheard of to the Serab crafters. As the color schemes were not becoming to Westerners, only a small number was sent to market in these areas.

Serab camel hair runner rug #42392 from Nazmiyal Antique Rugs in NYC

A Serab camel hair rug #42392

Persian Bidjar Camel Hair Rugs

The people of Bidjar wanted their carpets to have a grand visual presentation. They often used posh medallions alongside a rosette pendant. Generally, they put the medallion on top of a large section of fur that is unembellished, but they would add a splash of color. Standard rugs from this region use a wool foundation as it makes a robust fabric that will last for generations to come.

Persian Camel Hair Bakshaish Rugs

The antique Persian carpets designed from this region are the rarest and hold the greatest values. They used a central medallion that was lop-sided intentionally. The medallion was placed on a field of minuscule camelhair, which was encircled by motifs of dragons and clusters of leaves or flowers. Some say these Bakshaish rugs had a hypnotic flair to them along with themes such as “The Tree of Life.” These carpets are extremely treasured for their artistry and ornate nature, so it’s no wonder they fetch a hefty amount on the market.

Supply and Demand For Camel Hair Rugs Affects an Increasing Market

By the 1920’s, camelhair rugs had become quite popular. When they were commercialized, the Western world noticed the rug weaving abilities of the people in Persia. Production increased to meet demands. No longer were these masterpieces created for the use of the local household; rather, they were marketed for a profit.

With the increasing demands came significant change. They didn’t put the time and detail into each piece with sales quotas in place. Also, they changed from a style that was more appealing to the Europeans and morphed their designs into something visually pleasing for the Westerners. Today, finding a camel hair rug that has the artistic integrity that was seen in the early days is difficult.

Undoubtedly, there is no comparison to other rugs on the market and the camelhair varieties. Due to their scarceness, collectible nature, and appreciation value, they are highly desirable. Any carpet that is brought to auction always has many bidders hoping for a chance to own a piece of history.

Camel Hair Design - Nazmiyal Antique Rugs in NYC

Camel Hair Design

Interior designers want these carpets for their high-end projects, mainly since they feature the earthy tones often used in Italian and other decorative styles. Yet, many designers seek such rare finds as a camel hair rug to add to their own collection.

It doesn’t matter if a person is a collector of beautiful rugs, an aficionado of fine art, or one that loves the nature of the camelhair carpets; these exquisite pieces are a splendid investment and a conversation piece that will provide much enjoyment throughout life.

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