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Showing all 16 results
It’s worth noting that the choice of materials in rug weaving can vary based on regional traditions, available resources, and the intended purpose of the rug.
Silk and metallic thread rugs have been woven in various cultures throughout history, but some regions and periods are particularly notable for their production.
It’s important to note that the production of silk and metallic rugs is not limited to these regions and periods. Artisans in various parts of the world have incorporated silk and metal threads into their rug weaving traditions over time, and these materials continue to be used in contemporary rug production as well.
Occasionally, one gets a rare opportunity to glimpse into a world that was hidden from most and that has been lost in time. It is a world of the opulence and wealth that built dynasties. Silk and metallic rugs give us one of these rare views of what life was like behind the palace walls and in the gilded halls of sultans and kings.
Silk and metal threads are the raw materials for creating some of the most beautiful masterpieces in the world. Silk is one of the strongest fibers in the world, and it can be spun into threads so fine it takes a magnifying glass to see them. Silk holds color beautifully and can produce brilliant, vibrant colors. Silk has a shimmer and sheen that no man-made fiber can ever mimic. When combined with metallic threads, this produces a radiance that fills the room with a feeling of luxury and refined taste like no other materials can do.
Silk and metallic rugs can achieve knot counts so fine that their level of detail gives them an almost sublime quality. These magnificent pieces of history were reserved for sultans, kings, religious objects, and for the only the wealthiest clientele. Throughout many cultures, metallic and silk rugs were a sign of the only highest wealth and status.
Even for the highly trained designers and weavers who created these masterpieces, it was a sign of accomplishment and achievement to be allowed to work on such an article. In most ancient cultures, special guilds were formed for artisans who specialized in the craft. Those who could work with metallic threads were in a class of their own. It often took many years of specialized training and practice to create these pieces that are now considered world treasures. These pieces are a lasting legacy to a world that has since slipped into the annals of time.
Goldwork originally developed in Asia and has been around for at least 2,000 years. During the Middle Ages, it reached a remarkable level of skill and was used throughout Europe in pieces for the church. It was prized for the way the light played with the threads. Goldwork actually contained very little gold and was a gold-coated wire of cheaper metal. You can also find pieces in silver and copper as well. Sometimes, these pieces use a combination of several different metals.
In embroidery, the metallic thread is usually laid across the fabric and held in place by tacking stitches, called couching. This was usually done with silk threads. However, rugs with silk and metallic pile use a different technique. The silk thread was spun into a fine thread. A thin metallic wire was then plied with it to create a single thread. This created a thread that had the brilliant color of the silk with an enhanced glimmer from the metallic threads.
Artisans who knew the secrets of silk and metallic threads were rare and considered an exclusive class of artisans. You can find historical examples of these pieces from the Byzantine Empire, Italy, China, Persia, and throughout the world. In every case, such work was reserved for special pieces and special occasions. Many of them were used to line walls of the inner chambers of the royal Persian estates, and throughout the Forbidden City of China. They were particularly prized during the Ming Dynasty, throughout the Ottoman Empire, and Safavid Dynasty. However, you can also find a few tribal rugs that use silk and metallic threads, too.
Finding a silk and metallic rug or piece of metallic embroidery is rare. Many of them are on display in museums around the world. A silver rug where the metals have tarnished with age has a charm and Old-World appeal that cannot be found in any modern piece. Copper tends to take on a recognizable aged patina, but gold often stays as brilliant for hundreds of years. The Metropolitan Museum of Art has an excellent collection of goldwork, metallic rugs, tapestries, and other pieces.
On a rare occasion, the Nazmiyal Collection has the chance to acquire one of these breathtaking pieces. Although most of the ones that are still in existence are in private collections, one occasionally comes on the market. It is with great pride that we provide the opportunity for you to add one to your collection. There is simply nothing more beautiful than these special rugs to bring a feeling of elegance and warmth into the space. If you see one of these beauties that catches your eye, feel free to contact our knowledgeable staff, and we will be glad to help you.
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!
