Vintage Rya rugs are a type of traditional Scandinavian rug known for their distinctive shaggy texture and vibrant designs. The term “Rya” refers to both the rug style and the specific type of long-piled yarn used to create the rugs. These rugs have a rich history and are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
Rya rugs originated in Scandinavia, particularly in Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Denmark. They have been produced for centuries, with their popularity peaking in the mid-20th century. Rya rugs were commonly used as bed covers, wall hangings, or floor coverings, adding warmth and coziness to homes in colder climates.
What sets Rya rugs apart is their deep, fluffy pile. They are typically woven with long, hand-knotted strands of wool or other natural fibers. This results in a plush and luxurious texture that is both visually appealing and comfortable to walk on. The pile height can vary, but it is not uncommon for Rya rugs to have pile lengths ranging from one to three inches.
In terms of design, vintage Rya rugs often feature bold and geometric patterns, inspired by Scandinavian folk art and nature. Popular motifs include abstract shapes, flowers, trees, and animals. The color palette is typically vibrant and includes bright hues like red, blue, yellow, and green. Some Rya rugs also incorporate earthy tones or more subdued colors, depending on the desired aesthetic.
Due to their craftsmanship, historical significance, and unique aesthetic, vintage Rya rugs are considered valuable and collectible. They can add a touch of retro charm to modern interiors or complement mid-century and Scandinavian-inspired decor. Additionally, the high-quality materials used in their production make them durable and long-lasting.
When purchasing a vintage Rya rug, it’s important to consider its condition, authenticity, and provenance. Genuine vintage Rya rugs can be found through antique dealers, specialized rug stores, or online marketplaces. Proper care and maintenance are also essential to preserve the rug’s quality and extend its lifespan.
The word “Rya” actually means “shaggy” which refers to the texture of the vintage Rya rugs. Their patterns tend to be simple and incorporate straight lines, stripes and bold geometric patterns.
Because of their geometric designs, the vintage Swedish Rya rugs are prized both for their exciting, traditional composition as well as their important cultural role in the history of Scandinavia. As the interest in mid century vintage Scandinavian rugs continues to climb, so too will the inherent value of fine Swedish Rya rugs.
Rya Rugs (or Ryijy) are the traditional Scandinavian rugs made in Sweden and Finland, and word “Rya” actually means Rug. The vintage Scandinavian Rya rugs that were made in Sweden have extremely long, dense pile and were inspired by the Turkish “Yataks” or bedding rugs. Simple patterns, stripes and geometric designs are emblematic of these textural treasures. Thanks to the recent revival of mid century decors the vintage Swedish Rya rugs seem to have made a strong comeback.
Interior Designers and decorators are seeking out vintage rugs from Scandinavia and more specifically the mid-century vintage shag Swedish Rya rugs because of their art deco feel and modernist designs. From all the different types of Scandinavian carpets, the shaggy Rya rugs are easiest to recognize due to their pile which is much like the modern day “shag carpets”.
Scandinavia’s fantastic vintage rya Rugs are modernist, luxurious and superbly stylish. With such rich textures, bold colors and abstract designs, it’s not surprising that these luscious mid-century area rugs are working their way back into modern interiors. After Islamic textiles were introduced to the far north around the 10th century, it didn’t take Scandinavian craftspeople long to produce their own re-creations. The first long-pile Ryas were worn by sailors and fishermen, and they were also used as insulating bed-covers.
This enduring Nordic textile enjoyed centuries of popularity first as an upper-class bed covering and later as a local handicraft. During the 1600’s, decorative Swedish Rya shag rugs were made for dowries, featured in wedding ceremonies and displayed in homes. The popularity of these luxurious, colorful rugs really took off in the mid-20th century when shag carpets were must-have accessories, and Scandinavian design pieces were all the rage. The scrumptious texture and rich colors of vintage Scandinavian Ryas have earned them a place in stylish homes once again.
Home Decorating With Vintage Swedish Rya Rugs
Vintage Rya Rugs are Scandinavian rugs that were woven in Sweden and / or Finland. The word “Rya” actually means “shaggy” which refers to the texture of the vintage Rya rugs. Their patterns tend to be simple and incorporate straight lines, stripes and bold geometric patterns.
Because of their geometric designs, the vintage Swedish Rya rugs are prized both for their exciting, traditional composition as well as their important cultural role in the history of Scandinavia. As the interest in mid century vintage Scandinavian rugs continues to climb, so too will the inherent value of fine Swedish Rya rugs.
A Home Decorated With A Vintage Swedish Rya Rug:
Home Decorating With Vintage Swedish Rya Rugs
Home Decorating With Vintage Swedish Rya Rugs
The mid century modern movement in interior design has embraced these beautiful and whimsical works of folk art rugs, different from art deco rugs. Designers and consumers have been flocking buying these rugs for their modernist designs and relatively low pricing.
Vintage rya rugs use unique colors and abstract patterns
This beautiful shag rug has cool blues and purples with a school of fish swimming towards the center.
For the past two or three years, vintage interiors have been all the rage. If this vintage mid century modern fueled trend continues (and we don’t see the interest tapering any time soon) then you can count on the fact that the vintage Swedish Rya rugs will spike in value. Especially as the demand grows while the supply dwindles.
History of Vintage Swedish Rya Rugs
Details make all the difference. This is certainly the case with traditional handcrafted vintage rya rugs (ra-yas). These shaggy, often colorful vintage rugs and carpets and wall coverings are a development unique to Scandinavia, but they have also created a sensation throughout the United States – a decorating and handcrafting sensation to be precise.
Although the first Rya rugs and carpets date back to the middle ages, they have become a quintessential part of mid-century modern decor. At first look, ryas resemble the shaggy latch hook carpets made on card tables and dinner tables across the country.
However, their traditional construction and fine materials set them apart as do the exceptional qualities of the rya sheep and their long-staple wool.
Melinda Byrd, a Maryland-based artist and third-generation rya expert, explained these differences, saying that the wool is exceptionally durable and resilient, but you wouldn’t want a sweater made with these coarse fibers.
These unique traits make traditional rya rugs compression and wear resistant. So after years of use, they retain their fluffy, shaggy appearance and luxurious tactile qualities. The backing and parts of the rya that one doesn’t usually observe also make a difference.
While latch hook rugs are made by wrapping pre-cut yarn around a mesh-like backing, rya backings are hand made. Pre-planned spaces between rows of weft allow the artist to make symmetric Turkish or Ghiordes rug knots around each warp thread at a rate of about four knots per inch.
Historically, this tightly woven foundation was made with a wool weft and high-quality linen warp.
The rug’s signature shaggy pile is formed by many uniform loops that are cut open later in the process. Looped pile was common for many years. Anecdotes say that high-heeled shoes made cut pile a safety necessity. In the United States, many people created their own ryas using commercial kits.
These pieces have become treasured family heirlooms that are still enjoyed today. Those who have lived with these objects have a great understating of what makes ryas so special.
Quality is an elusive and sometimes subjective sensation that’s best discovered by understanding the construction process, learning about the value of the materials and seeing the finished product first hand. The current emphasis on quality and style is fueling a modern-day contemporary revival of vintage rya rug making.
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!
