Antique Rugs | Oriental Rugs | Appraisals | Experts | RugRag.com

New World Record: $33 Million Carpet Sold

David — Thu, 06 Jun 2013 02:31:00 -0700

A 17th century Vase Carpet sold at Sotheby's New York June 5th 2013 for a record breaking $33.765 million.

The previous World record was held by the sale of a similar sized carpet by Christies only a few years earlier just under $10 million.

New World Record: $33 Million Carpet Sold

David — Thu, 06 Jun 2013 02:21:00 -0700

A 17th century Vase Carpet sold at Sotheby's New York June 5th 2013 for a record breaking $33.765 million.

The previous World record was held by the sale of a similar sized carpet by Christies only a few years earlier just under $10 million.

Tabriz Carpet

David — Tue, 18 Dec 2012 12:03:00 -0700

Have you seen this antique Tabriz before?

Do you or anyone you know have information about this carpet?

http://AntiqueSilkRug.com

A substantial reward is posted (see website) pending receipt of detailed information and full cooperation leading to successful recovery of this carpet in original condition.

We encourage recipients to promote awareness by forwarding this weblink to other interested parties.

Brian Wiliams and British Prime Minister on Obama

webmasterRD — Sun, 18 Mar 2012 16:37:00 -0700

British Prime Minister David Cameron describes his relationship with President Obama on an Ardabil replica carpet.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Source:http://rockcenter.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/03/14/10685476-british-prime-minister-david-cameron-describes-his-relationship-with-president-obama

Joe Namath on a Kerman

David — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 15:55:00 -0700

In the spirit of Super Bowl Sunday this February 5th, a photo of Joe Namath at home on a Persian Kerman as seen in LIFE 1972. Photo credit LIFE

Mid Century Persian Kerman

David — Sun, 24 Jul 2011 13:14:00 -0700

Found Online:

I researched Persian rugs, and found that this was woven in Kerman Iran, probably in the late 1960's. The story goes that a new rug weaver opened shop with the intent of making the highest quality rugs. The other rug weavers sued him in local court to prevent him from outdoing them. They lost. This rug has 360 stitches per square inch, and therefore because of the high stitch count, is believed to be from the 'outlaw' rug weaver. Digital photos don't do light blue colors justice, and the close up gives a better look at the stunning color.

-Anonymous

From Rug Rag

Kerman Rug / Carpet (really a carpet in this size). Sometimes loosely referred to as "American Kerman" circa 1960's as you determined and as mentioned. It is a true Persian carpet woven in Persia / Iran. The vast majority of this "American" Kerman style are post WWII. Earlier than WWII generally follow a less rigid motif, although will often have similar attributes.

Finer and more choice Kerman rugs from this vintage will have in excess of one dozen colors with a knot density of around 225 knots per square inch (around 15 knots horizontal, 15 knots vertical. More commercialized Kerman rugs (often also the later era) will have fewer colors be in the area of 170 knots per square inch (around 13 horizontal, 13 vertical) or less. Yours appears to be the latter based on many factors, but a find nonetheless.

Many incorrectly count knots, or dealers often inflate such numbers and other information. More likely with this carpet, knot count of 360 was inaccurately determined by counting the double ply yarn as two separate knots. For example, 13 knots horizontal by 13 knots vertical = 169 kpsi. Counting two knots vertical for each vertical knot (incorrectly assuming 2 ply is two separate knots) brings the count to 13 x 26 = 338 kpsi. Congruent with a less reputable dealer's story or additional misinterpreted knot count, may bring it up more...

Knot count is often irrelevant in the scope of a carpet. However, if accurately measured, it should be assessed in two or more areas of a carpet. Especially more toward the inside: e.g. samplings in and around the field. Although a minority square area (in the scope of the entire carpet), often the outer 2" or 3" of a mid-century Kerman rug edge is more tightly woven than the rest of the carpet. Generally, in this area, Kerman rugs of this vintage and knot density will not fall far outside a 5% margin +/-.

Note: Photograph above is a stock image found on LiveAuctioneers.com

Jacquard Weaving Loom

David — Tue, 19 Jul 2011 10:22:00 -0700

Question Received from Reader:

Hello, This rug has been in our family for many years. I have attached pictures.

Could you please tell me something about my rug? If it is considered to be antique, and is there any value to the rug?

-Anonymous

Response:

Based on the image provided, we would venture to guess this is a mechanically loomed "Jacquard" carpet. You may be able to identify this with several verified methods:

Pile-less, flat woven carpet
Greatly varied length / width of design elements - sometimes a single "points" of design may be visible, whereas other areas are more continuous, and cover a greater area.
Often an 'inverse' color-wave on the back of the carpet. Often reversible, or double sided.

Typically, rugs and textiles created using the Jacquard method of operation are faster and less expensive to create. As opposed to a traditional hand knotted rug, the looms are mechanically set and driven.

Regarding value: There are not enough photographs for us to say decisive ballpark values. Perhaps if there is a manufacturing label which may identify the rug as having a unique production, or otherwise indicate an earlier example, these carpets are generally lower-investment range carpets.

For further information and assistance, please do consider registering for our Oriental Rug and Carpet forum.

Kind regards,

David Dilmaghani
Co-Founder, RugRag.com

Note: Photograph above is a stock image from a NY antique rug auction in 2010.

Affordable Antique Rugs

David — Mon, 18 Jul 2011 18:54:00 -0700

Question Received from Reader:

We recently purchased a hand knotted rug on eBay from an individual. It was not quite what we were expecting. It seemed to have some hard areas. After deliberating for some time, we brought it to our local rug dealer for evaluation. Turns out, there is some substantial wear, but worse, 'dry rot'. Perhaps online was not the best place to purchase after all!

We want to know where you would suggest to purchase antique rugs for a low investment. We need affordable and the look!

-Anonymous

Response:

This is a great question, and thank you for sending it in!

Generally, the best way to purchase a used or antique carpet is by seeing it in person. Up close, with your own eyes, hands and, in some cases, nose. Sometimes the most affordable antique rugs are not affordable at all. Costly repairs based on expert evaluation, such as dry rot, can substantially decrease long-term investment potential & utility.

Our best word of advice is to purchase in person, and have the option for return if you are not 100% satisfied. Being new to rugs, the best thing to do is go with what you do know. Look for the basics - even wear, healthy and supple structure, watch out for any abrupt anomalies in the pile height, pet stains, or other issues. Another tip - if you must buy online - is to really look at the design of the rug to determine if symmetry in motif was cut short. Removed borders or worn ends can significantly diminish the value of a carpet.

Outside of the general tips above, the most affordable antique rug (or any for that matter) is the carpet you enjoy the most, and take care of. Even substantial upfront investment can be worth it years to come. Perhaps the best bargain is done by extensive hunting - find local small auction houses close by, yard sales, outdoor flea markets, etc. If you get very good at spotting potentially problematic areas in a used rug, it could be a good option. Unfortuantely, returns often are not an option.

Alternatively, and by far the best option, is to find a local reputable Rug Dealer. Perhaps the dealer you brought your current rug to would be a viable option?

We wish you the best in your search! Remember, you can always interact with the rug experts on our Oriental rug forum to help guide you in making educated purchasing decisions.

Additional resources: Check out LiveAuctioneers for potential local auctions, and antiquesandthearts.com Calendar

David Dilmaghani
Co-Founder, RugRag.com

Note: Photograph above is a stock image from a NY antique rug auction in 2010.

Very Valuable and Rare Dumpster Rug Antiques Roadshow

David — Wed, 16 Feb 2011 17:21:00 -0700

Straight from the curb - a very rare 'dumpster' rug find to not miss.

Antiques Roadshow Rug Found in a Dumpster Valued at $125,000 - $150,000

Rare Rug on Antiques Roadshow a Tekke "Animal Tree" Asmalyk from around the very early 1800's Turkmenistan.

GUEST: My husband called me. He had been out, and he said, "Down the street there's a house that they're cleaning out, and there's a couch on the curb and a dumpster." We were looking for a sofa for my daughter, who was moving into a condominium. And so I grabbed my mom and I said, "Let's go look." So we get to the street, and the sofa is, like, brand new, and I felt really guilty about taking it, so I walked up to the door, and I knocked on the door and I said, "Is it free?" And he said, "Yes, take it." And he goes, "What else does she need?" And I go, "Well, we need some rugs and some other things." And he said, "I got a whole dumpster full of stuff, so you're welcome to go through it." My mom and I started going through the dumpster, and he was helping us pull out bags of these rugs, and so we're putting them in the car along with some other stuff, got them home, thought they were pretty ugly and that they weren't going to look good in the condo at all, actually, and so then the more we started looking at them, we thought, "Well, maybe they're, like, something. Maybe they're, like, a collection of something."

APPRAISER: Mm-hmm.

GUEST: So that's how we got them.

APPRAISER: And you brought four in today, and we selected this one to look at.

GUEST: Right.

APPRAISER: You've done a little bit of research on your own?

GUEST: Yes. If it's real, we did find something very, very similar to this on the Internet. It came from the Tekke Turkoman tribe, or at least these patterns did, and it's something called an "animal tree" pattern. And I'm not quite sure how to say the word, but it's an asmalyk, or something like that, rug.

APPRAISER: Well, the Internet is an amazing tool. The trick is to know how much of that information is actually going to apply to your piece or not.

GUEST: Right.

APPRAISER: This is an asmalyk, and it's woven by the Tekke tribe, and the Tekke tribe were one of several tribes that lived in Turkmenistan, and the Tekke were near the Iranian border.

GUEST: Okay.

APPRAISER: And there's a long tradition of these nomads weaving these pieces both for utilitarian purposes and ceremonial purposes. So an asmalyk would have been made as a dowry piece, but it would have been used in the wedding procession as a ceremonial piece, and it would have hung on the side of the camel during the bride's procession. And then it would just simply go into the dowry. And we see a lot of these asmalyks from the 19th century. Most of the ones we see are from the late 19th century. This one happens to be earlier. I believe that this one is circa 1800, or it could possibly even be late 18th century.

GUEST: Wow.

APPRAISER: It's very hard to date these accurately. If we look at the back, we can see how beautifully woven it is.

GUEST: Mm-hmm.

APPRIASER: Very, very fine knotting.

GUEST: So that is handwoven?

APPRAISER: Yes, it's hand-knotted.

GUEST: It's hand-knotted-- okay.

APPRAISER: Yes, so there are a few hundred knots per square inch.

GUEST: And how long would it have taken to make one of these?

APPRAISER: It could have easily taken a year to make.

GUEST: Wow.

APPRAISER: The warp threads are very fine two-ply goat hair. And the color range is also very nice for a good old Turkoman piece. The reason it's called an "animal tree" asmalyk is that it has this tree flanked by two animals. And the earlier ones, the animals have these little plumes, as opposed to the later ones, where the plumes are no longer there.

GUEST: Oh.

APPRAISER: The condition of the piece is pretty good for its age. There is a patch that's been put in, and that's a patch from another rug. That's something that could very easily be rewoven by an expert.

GUEST: Okay.

APPRAISER: Now, you found one on the Internet that had sold at auction, and that was a related example that sold in 2004. And you mentioned that it had sold for about $140,000.

GUEST: Or pounds, I don't know which one.

APPRAISER: What is your gut feeling about whether it's right or not?

GUEST: I can't even believe that it would be near that. First of all, I thought it was machine made. My husband really believes that it's real, that it's the real thing.

APPRAISER: Okay.

GUEST: And I'm still skeptical.

APPRAISER: Well, I believe that a collector would pay a retail price of between $125,000 and $150,000.

GUEST: You are serious?!

APPRAISER: I'm serious.

GUEST: Oh, my gosh! He was right-- I can't b... Yes, we can pay for college!

APPRAISER: Yes!

GUEST: No. Great! Sell it. No.

APPRAISER: There are fewer than ten known, I believe

GUEST: Oh my gosh! You’re kidding!

APPRAISER: …that have ever come up in this design that have sold publicly.

GUEST: Now I'm really going to owe my mother, because she's the one that actually dove in the dumpster to pull the bags out.

APPRAISER: I love it.

Antiques Roadshow San Diego Hour 2

Osman Hamdi Bey A Lady of Constantinople

David — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 20:19:00 -0700

Turkish Painting 'A Lady of Constantinople' Signed Hamdi Bey '81, with a gorgeous carpet on the floor. Laleh Abassi reciprocating border motif with alternating red and blue. Red field and medallion.

Popular search keywords for a similar rug would include 'Pak Caucasian' for newer rugs in a similar spirit, which are derived from antique Kazak and Caucasian designs.

OSMAN HAMDI BEY
TURKISH, 1842-1910
A LADY OF CONSTANTINOPLE

3,000,000—4,000,000 GBP
Lot Sold. Hammer Price with Buyer's Premium: 3,380,500 GBP

185 by 109cm., 73 by 43in.

Lot 100 Sotheby's London May 2008

Rug Painting

David — Sun, 30 Jan 2011 10:40:00 -0700

Soldier Rug

David — Sun, 30 Jan 2011 10:30:00 -0700

Designed, inspired and executed by We Make Carpets

Soldier Rug

We Make Carpets

David — Sun, 30 Jan 2011 10:15:00 -0700

WE MAKE CARPETS exhibited at ‘instant nature’ in the Dutch 2009 design week. Using everyday products ‘we make carpets’ creates "temporary contemporary" rugs of all kinds. Designers Stijn van der Vleuten and Marcia Nolte and visual artist Bob Waardenburg work without sketches or plans using everyday objects in a spontaneous and instantaneous manner to construct their carpets. With endless possibilities and a plethora of designs using unconventional carpet materials, there's no telling what new displays will come!

Pasta Rug

Soldier Rug

Visit their site!

Pasta Rug

David — Sun, 30 Jan 2011 09:59:00 -0700

Very close to the real deal, this is the Pasta Carpet by We Make Carpets:

Photos sourced:

http://wemakecarpets.wordpress.com/about/

Most Expensive 2010

David — Mon, 03 Jan 2011 09:21:00 -0700

Most expensive hand knotted antique Oriental rugs of 2010*

Number 6

$326,553

more info from Christie's

Number 5

$335,998

more info from Sotheby's

Number 4

$345,645

Lot Description from Christie's

A KASHAN 'MOHTASHAM' CARPET
ORDERED BY HAJJI MUHAMMAD HUSAYN KASHANI, CENTRAL PERSIA, CIRCA 1870-80
10ft.2in. x 7ft.10in. (309cm. x 238cm.)

The inscription cartouche reads farmayesh-e (commissioned by) Hajji Muhammad Husayn Kashani.

more info from Christie's

Number 3

$371,643

more info from Christie's

Post-Lot Text from Christie's

A SQUARE WOOL AND COTTON PARAKEETS AND PARROTS CARPET BY ERNEST BOICEAU, CIRCA 1920
This model is known to exist in only three or four examples, one of which, of different size, was part of the Collection Yves Saint Laurent - Pierre Bergé sold at Christie's in association with Pierre bergé & associés, Paris in February 2009 (lot 273)
This lot was acquired by Madame Arthur Sachs in the 30s.

Number 2

$1,795,989

more info from Sotheby's

Number 1, top for 2010 and all-time World Record

$9.5 Million

*Price realized includes buyer's Premium. For Details, see Christie's Buyer Premiums and Sotheby's Buyer Premiums. Some conversions of GBP to USD based on January 3rd conversion rates.

What is this rug pattern?

David — Sat, 27 Nov 2010 18:45:00 -0700

Question: "I know virtually nothing about rugs and was wondering if someone can help me find out what type of pattern/design this is?"

Answer: Some very good answers on the forum which we completely agree with the comments. "Lotto Uskak" design was mentioned as well as another regarding floorcovering being a fabric as opposed to a carpet.

While some rug designs and styles are very distinguished and clearly indigenous to particular regions, overall, evolution of rug designs has naturally been very eclectic. Motifs and patterns migrating from one region to another, borrowed from one and inevitably brought to another. With this, the search can become very diffilult to isolate what terms may be useful.

Antique Ushak designs is a very good suggestion and absolutely a good contender as being similar in motif. The other point made was the rug may not be a rug at all, but more likely a fabric, which would explain the absence of a border and repeating pattern. This is probably true in the photograph above: Likely a printed floorcovering or broadloom carpet of sorts.

Printed floorcoverings are not as common as they once were in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, especially in the New England area of the US. Canvas 'carpet' was significantly less costly for higher traffic areas than woven fabric as painted designs and motifs lost to fading or use could be revitalized with much less expense than actual woven material.

The repeating motif of the carpet above, as well as the lack of a border may also serve as an indication of broadloom carpet as previously mentioned. This too was available many, many years ago. Examples may be seen in historic landmarks such as the Lincoln Bedroom, where long strips of carpeting would be sewn together to the size to the area.

The best search will probably be using keywords relevant to the motif as opposed to searching any specific type of rug. Looking at the pattern, the repeat is diamond-shaped in equal incriments at fairly similar scale. In rugs, this would sometimes be referred to as a "lattice" or "panel" motif (to a certain extent). Perhaps "lattic rug" "lattice carpet" would be good starting points, as would "panel rug" or "panel carpet" and perhaps "ingrain rug" "ingrain carpet". Very old examples from the Safavid period sometimes inspire newer, modern renditions, so other choices could be "vase carpet/rug," Although many may be more geometric than the scalloped edges of this motif above, hopefully it is a good start. Another great possibility would be to search local wall-to-wall or broadloom locations near you. This may be a great option as they typically come without borders, and may be made in to custom area rug sizes. Often, there is a minimum size order, although would be great if you have other areas of your home to decorate with similar style. If you want to go a more authentic route, there are many retail design studios of Tibetan rugs and Indian carpets who have the ability to make custom hand knotted rugs. The final result could be virtually identical to the carpet above, made to your exacting specifications.

Great looking carpet, we wish you the best of luck!

Kanye West Persian Rug Request

David — Sat, 27 Nov 2010 17:34:00 -0700

Kanye West Twitter around July 2010:

We do our best to keep track of the celebrity buzz about Oriental rugs and Persian carpets. Kanye, we could help you on this Cherub imagery Persian rug

It's called the Dance of the Nymphs Carpet. It's amazin', so amazin', so amazin', so amazin' IT'S amazin'. Feel free to send through a photograph when you get the Cherub Persian rug Kanye. Hopefully no issues with importing from Iran!

"I specifically ordered persian rugs with cherub imagery!!! What do I have to do to get a simple persian rug with cherub imagery uuuuugh"

Sources:

kanyewest twitter

image from roc4life.com

Selling a Rug

David — Thu, 18 Nov 2010 06:22:00 -0700

Question: I want to have my rug appraised and then sell it online. Do you help facilitate sale of Rugs you assess and appraise online?

Answer: We will be able to help provide you with the knowledge, tools and perhaps potential outlets of sale in our full assessment based on the type of rug, caliber and your location. Directly facilitating the sale is somewhat unrealistic for us for several reasons such as what your asking price may be after we render a report, in addition to other aspects such as conflict of interest post-appraisal process. We do make suggestions for potential venues of sale in the appraisal process depending on the type of rug on hand such as eBay, Craigslist, Sotheby's Christies, or other, auction houses. Depending on the type of rug, and one, or more, or perhaps a combination of the previous could be suggested. It is our policy to never point our readership to a specific buyer.

Outside of our suggestions within the appraisal/assessment, we do have several additional options and tools which may be of interest to you as a private seller pre and post appraisal process. Some areas are subject to moderation.

Rug Buzz (RugBuzz.com) We have a beta testing of a classifieds site which you could use, currently free of charge to private sellers.

Rug Rag (RugRag.com) Our main website and blog. If you have interest in selling the rug online, we can also publish to our blog providing we are not swamped. If you would like to submit information and history about the rug as you know it (such as colors and why you are selling) which would be open to posting on RugRag.com. We would also include information we provide about the rug after the appraisal proccess within the blog post.

Rugs of The Week (RugsOfTheWeek.com) Intended for commercial/dealer venue for carpets that are significantly discounted which generally we have also inspected in-person. If a rug is brought to us at an unbelievable price, we may also post it to Rugs of the Week even if it is private party.

Oriental Rug and Carpet Forum (Show 'em your knots Section) You may post here a rug you have which you are considering selling.

Lastly, for presentation on a venue of your choice we can also furnish an online report card which states we reviewed the rug. A typical example of an online report card would be similar to this carpet which resides on Rugs of the Week. We cannot verify the price unless we have seen the carpet in person, although it is useful if you decide to sell the rug on another online site or auction venue it is helpful to have the public see we have reviewed it as a third party. The report card is an additional fee atop the appraisal, although is nominal. Everything else listed above is currently free of charge, but also subject to moderation.

Hope this is helpful, let us know if you have any questions

David Dilmaghani
info@rugrag.com

24k Gold Carpet Universe Rug

David — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 08:41:00 -0700

A most unusual, and very expensive rug has been unveiled at the Internation Furniture and Design Exhibition (INFDEX) 2010 which closes today at the Doha Exhibition Center.

To make this spectacular piece took three master weavers four and a half years. Made entirely of pure 24 Karat gold and close to eighteen million knots, the "Universe" Carpet as it is known depicts over two hundred animals, fifty different colors, the moon, the sun and symbols of the twelve months. The Turkish made "Universe" rug has an asking price of $3.2 million dollars. Although the large asking price seems as astronomical as its' name, with an exceptionally high failure rate due to the ultra unique and valuable materials used, there is little margin for error during construction of a carpet such as this.

Bülent Durmaz, Manager of LoomArt, the commissioners of the Universe Carpet stated: "You only have 20 percent of chance to complete the carpet. If you commit any mistake, there’s no chance you can recover your expenses,"

Photo: thepeninsulaqatar.com

http://www.qatarqlick.com/entertainment/item/833-most-expensive-carpet-in-the-world-at-infdex.html

Buying Rugs Overseas

David — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 07:27:00 -0700

View Larger Map

Question: "Are pashmina rugs really more valuable than regular wool rugs? Are rugs really that much cheaper to purchase in India? How much cheaper to buy while visiting India vs. here in the US? Thanks!"

Answer:

Hi you have some excellent questions here. Pashmina, if in fact true pashmina, can drive investment cost to a higher bracket. This is also dependent on the amount of refinement, grade and wool quality as well.

Regarding prices overseas, one would assume the closer you get to the source, the less expensive rugs would be. However, it is important to know sellers in bazaars understand this lower price expectation tourists have, and often prey on first-time-buyer misconceptions. In addition, it's not uncommon for rugs which are seen overseas are not the cream-of-the-crop so to speak. Some of these rugs may have flaws which could push them into "seconds goods" categories, or designs and motifs not conducive to overseas demand or colors which are particularly garish. These factors all affect the aesthetic appeal, and therefore value of carpets. If you have a specific rug in mind you were considering purchasing, we would like to recommend our Oriental Rug and Carpet forum. It is free to use and register. Thanks for contacting!

Rug with Fringed End and Plainweave End Adding Fringe

David — Wed, 03 Nov 2010 16:03:00 -0700

Question Received from Reader:

I purchased this rug from an eBay seller, it is 4'4"x7' in size. It had the following information when bought:

"ANTIQUE HANDWOVEN MARVELOUS DESIGN PERSIAN SAROUK FARAHAN RUG circa 1930s".

This rug is in perfect condition with sides and edges complete and original medium even pile through the rug, no stains, no odors, no repairs. Fine wool woven on cotton foundation

This rug is as described except that one end has fringe and the other has the kilim end without fringe. Thus one edge is not complete. I like the rug but wonder if the kilim end can be fringed and what it might cost to do so.

As noted above the rug is as described except for the kilim end not being fringed. He stated that fringe could be added but he would not advise this. It looks unfinished and I wonder about the value of adding fringe or not.

-anonymous

Response:

Sweet little rug. This is a really good question with benefit to our readers.

A symmetrical and balanced rug, even when it comes to the fringe, is a common personal preference. We would like to share with you the following information (which may or may not affect your decision criteria) before you absolutely want this done.

The fringe as seen on the end you like (top photograph above) is likely an released version of the flatwoven end (lower photograph).

Although showing a bit of patina, the fringe has a slight curl to it, which may indicate at one point it too had been a kilim, or was a 'plainwoven' end. The plainweave portion is a slightly more intricate form of finishing the rug, with the fringe (or warps) being interlaced with weft, similar to the piled are of the rug with exception to knots for the pile not being tied.

In the state the rug is currently in, fringe may be gained in either one of two ways:

The flatwoven area may be professionally "released" or unraveled. This would entail reversing the weaving process down to the base of the rug, then finishing the end to be secured from losing knots. There are then several techniques of formal end finishing to fully secure. We would not recommend this, nor would we recommend adding fringe unless you absolutely must have it. Although not particularly costly to have the kilim unwoven or fringed added, it would not be in the spirit of the original rug and how it was made.

Second option would be to have fringe added. If you do opt to have fringe added, do make sure it is done in a reversible manner. We have received many emails where we can easily see in the images both value and aesthetics have been compromised by irreversible forms of 'repair'. At times, permanent adhesive or damaging glue had been applied.

Unless you are confident in how the repair specialist has explained their process and absolutely need the look of fringed sides on either end, it's somewhat of an unecessary investment to go through with any procedure. Generally the rug would be more desirable as it is with the plainweave end. This tends to be more durable over the long run (so long as no stray cords exist), more authentic, and true to the original rug which makes it special.

Thanks for writing us about this~

PS: We love the Drummer Boy Quarter!

David Dilmaghani
Co-Founder, RugRag.com

More Photographs of this "dozar" Persian rug

Antique Persian Silk Rug

David — Thu, 28 Oct 2010 11:57:00 -0700

Here's a video of a very unique and very old antique Persian silk Heriz from the fourth quarter 19th century. Enjoy the video, and be sure to check out additional information about this rare antique silk rug.

Antique Rug and Oriental Rug Meetup

David — Thu, 28 Oct 2010 06:06:00 -0700

We've scheduled our first meetup to be held as a gallery walk-through of Sotheby's sale N08683.

Join our meetup Group for Details!

Sotheby's Carpet Sale New York

Sotheby's Carpets in Manhattan Sale N08683

Spend an afternoon with fine rug appreciators at Sotheby's NY. A casual gallery walk-around for Sotheby's twice-annual Carpet Sale. Fine, old Oriental Rugs and Persian carpets! Discussion welcome, as is learning, sharing and enjoying fine hand knotted rugs through the ages.

Rugs for Sale, Rug Buzz Classified Rug listings

David — Tue, 05 Oct 2010 06:39:00 -0700

RugBuzz.com is in Beta Testing, open for Rug Rag Forum members and readers.

It is a free classified service for Rugs including new, semi-antique and antique.

Maximum image upload size is 4.5 MB between 5 images. It is moderated, so load time is extended as are ad approval and other features. If you have a rug or carpet you are interested in selling, try listing and let us know what you think. It is HTML enabled and links back to your website are possible. Bear with us as this is an experimental platform customized for Rugs!

Advertisting

David — Mon, 04 Oct 2010 19:16:00 -0700

Rugs of the Week

David — Sat, 18 Sep 2010 19:15:00 -0700

Rug Splits, Cracks or Tears: Testing

David — Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:23:00 -0700

With older rugs, if in person inspection is a viable option, it's one to take advantage of. Whether new to rugs or a seasoned specialist, with a few minutes of time, it's fairly easy to determine whether a rug has propensity toward spliting or tearing. This test is important, as it can provide valuable insight as to whether the rug should be avoided, or may require significant repairs before investment or use.

Smaller rugs are generally easier to inspect for obvious reasons such as lower square footage and ease of manipulation. The same principles for inspection go for larger rugs as well, although may need assistance from several individuals to thoroughly inspect.

Generally, before a rug splits, tears or cracks, there will be signs of potentialy problematic areas to come if they are not already immediately apparent.

Spotting with a propensity toward cracking will not necessarily be visually apparent. The test below may cause stress to potential problem areas. It is important in any instance of testing to proceed with caution, and release the rug immediately if resistance to the point of concern occurs.

A good starting point is to first determine if the rug already has splits or tears. This may be done by inspecting both the front and back of the subject.

The rug above exhibits signs of stress as splits (although shown horizintally, actually run with the direction of the warp). Clearly this rug is in need of professional attention, and further testing will require caution.

If the rug exhibits signs of splits, tears or cracks, being new to rugs, you may already have the advantage of feeling in and around the affected area to have a sense of what to look for, or what is to come. Otherwise, find areas of the rug which clearly exhibit healthy and supple pile/malleability under light folding: These will be your control.

Testing several areas scattered throughout the carpet should help serve as an indicator for the normal structural tension. In these areas, with light but gradually increasing steady folding pressure should exhibit no serious difficulties or resistance in folding any direction to the point of maximum compression. No physical or audible signs should exist: This would include 'hard' areas, or sounds of cracking/popping, even to the point of firm creasing with hard pressure. The objective is to cease pressure immediately if additional force indicates strong resistance to the point of potentially fracturing or splitting. If pressure applied leads to these concerns, you may have selected a problematic area unknowingly. Continue testing other areas to determine if this may be consistent throughout the rug as a natural characteristic of the weave, or alternatively, a potentially isolated problematic area.

As previously established, spotting areas of a rug with a propensity toward splitting or cracking will not necessarily be visually apparent, although a good starting point is to locate anomolies such as light staining or tinting on the pile (face of the rug) or reverse sides. Often, these are the first areas to be wary of, but are not the only ones. Once a suspected area has been identified, gathering up enough slack to created a vertical 'mound' for testing (running with the weft or warps) will enable light flexing within the confines of the affected area. If these areas feel hard or stiff even with light pressure, based on your knowledge of healthy areas (your control), determine whether continued pressure or further compression may result in fracturing of warp or weft. If so, you may have an area which has been compromised by staining, dry rot, or otherwise weak foundation and structure. Carefully continue to experiment in and around areas of concern to determine the extent of potential problem.

If the rug passes several spot-checks and is of manageable size for the hands available, you may continue with another more strenuous inspection. With the pile side up, gently 'walk' the rug over itself by slowly bringing one corner to to its diagonal opposite. If the rolling area of the fold 'raises' higher than normal, stop and check these areas for stiffness by applying light pressure on the suspected area.

Deciding on how severe potentially problematic areas are may require inspection by an expert. However, if a thorough inspection does not raise suspicion, you may have a perfectly healthy and structurally sound rug.

Oval Office Makeover

David — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 09:29:00 -0700

Replacing President Bush's "Sunbeam" Carpet designed by Laura Bush (at the cost of $62,000) is a new Oval Office carpet made for Obama. This time, apparently not on Taxpayer coin...Which is probably why the Obama Administration, who back in January 2009 stated they would not be replacing the sunburst Carpet, accepted the donation of this piece.

The new Obama Oval Office rug is in fact oval, and features a wheat/sand field with minor blue borders and main ivory border. Centered in the field of course is the Presidential Seal, and the outer edge inscribed with "historical quotes of meaning to President Obama.":

"The Only Thing We Have to Fear is Fear Itself" - President Franklin D. Roosevelt
"The Arc of the Moral Universe is Long, But it Bends Towards Justice" - Martin Luther King, Jr.
"Government of the People, By the People, For the People" - President Abraham Lincoln
"No Problem of Human Destiny is Beyond Human Beings" - President John F. Kennedy
"The Welfare of Each of Us is Dependent Fundamentally Upon the Welfare of All of Us" - President Theodore Roosevelt

Contrary to past tradition of renewing the Oval office with a taxpayer budget around $100,000, it is reported by CNN the carpet was a donation made by Scott Group Custom Carpets, and many of the new items were US sourced this way, not on taxpayer's dollars.

Sources:

Photo Credit (AP)
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-503544_162-20015173-503544.html

http://www.cnn.com/2010/US/08/31/oval.office.makeover/

SPORTSROIDS.COM For Sale

David — Sat, 21 Aug 2010 07:18:00 -0700

YOU FOUND:

Pentagon Sets Afghan Rug Washing Contract to start at $1 mil

David — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 06:49:00 -0700

The final washing of rugs is an integral part of hand knotted rug manufacturing.

In the instance of rugs woven in Afghanistan, the vast majority are sent to Pakistan for washing and finishing, then assigned Pakistani labels when readied for export to foreign markets.

The Pentagon seeks to encourage self-sufficient and sustaining industry of Afghan rug export by creating a contract (worth $1 mil, perhaps as high as $7 mil) for experts in the hand knotted industry to create formal, standardized washing facilities. A contract synopsis on the Federal Business Opportunity website refers to this contact as 'Notice of Intent to Sole Source for Afghan Carpet Industry Overhaul' in an effort to stabilize export in what is largely a rug-weaving country. Measures taken to encourage an efficient mechanism for rugs to be exported directly from Afghanistan will hopefully encourage revitalization in a country at war.

Any takers?

"The requirements include a minimum of 20 years of hands-on experience in the washing and finishing of hand-knotted carpets, 30 years' experience in carpet management production, carpet experience in post-conflict regions, a minimum of 50 business relationships with high-end retailers in Europe and North America -- and conversance in French, German and Turkish."

https://www.fbo.gov/index?s=opportunity&mode=form&id=6426df26341256cae99b608201c32d20&tab=ivl&tabmode=list

Sources:

https://www.fbo.gov/index?s=opportunity&mode=form&tab=core&id=6426df26341256cae99b608201c32d20

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/08/15/AR2010081502908_2.html?sid=ST2010081502719

Images:

http://www.hotfrog.ca/Companies/Professional-Oriental-Persian-Area-Rug-Cleaning

Pentagon Sets Afghan Rug Washing Contract to start at $1 mil

David — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 06:49:00 -0700

The final washing of rugs is an integral part of hand knotted rug manufacturing.

In the instance of rugs woven in Afghanistan, the vast majority are sent to Pakistan for washing and finishing, then assigned Pakistani labels when readied for export to foreign markets.

The pentagon seeks to encourage self-sufficient and sustaining industry of Afghan rug export by creating a contract (worth $1 mil, perhaps as high as $7 mil) for experts in the hand knotted industry to create formal, standardized washing facilities. A contract synopsis on the Federal Business Opportunity website refers to this contact as 'Notice of Intent to Sole Source for Afghan Carpet Industry Overhaul' in an effort to stabilize export in what is largely a rug-weaving country. Measures taken to encourage an efficient mechanism for rugs to be exported directly from Afghanistan will hopefully encourage revitalization in a country at war.

Any takers?

https://www.fbo.gov/index?s=opportunity&mode=form&id=6426df26341256cae99b608201c32d20&tab=ivl&tabmode=list

Sources:

https://www.fbo.gov/index?s=opportunity&mode=form&tab=core&id=6426df26341256cae99b608201c32d20

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/08/15/AR2010081502908_2.html?sid=ST2010081502719

Pentagon Sets Afghan Rug Washing Contract at $1 mil to $7 mil

David — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 06:20:00 -0700

The final washing of rugs is an integral part of hand knotted rug manufacturing.

In the instance of rugs woven in Afghanistan, the vast majority are sent to Pakistan for washing and finishing, then assigned Pakistani labels when readied for export to foreign markets.

The pentagon seeks to encourage self-sufficient and sustaining industry of Afghan rug export by creating a contract for experts in the hand knotted industry to facilitate standardized and formal washing facilities. A contract synopsis on the Federal Business Opportunity website refers to this contact as 'Notice of Intent to Sole Source for Afghan Carpet Industry Overhaul' in an effort to stabilize export in what is largely a rug-weaving country. Measures taken to encourage an efficient mechanism for rugs to be exported directly from Afghanistan will hopefully encourage revitalization in a country at war.

Any takers?

https://www.fbo.gov/index?s=opportunity&mode=form&id=6426df26341256cae99b608201c32d20&tab=ivl&tabmode=list

Sources:

https://www.fbo.gov/index?s=opportunity&mode=form&tab=core&id=6426df26341256cae99b608201c32d20

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/08/15/AR2010081502908_2.html?sid=ST2010081502719

Rug Cleaning Image:

http://www.hotfrog.ca/Companies/Professional-Oriental-Persian-Area-Rug-Cleaning

Pentagon Sets Afghan Rug Washing Contract at $1 mil to $7 mil

David — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 06:20:00 -0700

The final washing of rugs is an integral part of hand knotted rug manufacturing.

In the instance of rugs woven in Afghanistan, the vast majority are sent to Pakistan for washing and finishing, then assigned Pakistani labels when readied for export to foreign markets.

Any takers?

https://www.fbo.gov/index?s=opportunity&mode=form&id=6426df26341256cae99b608201c32d20&tab=ivl&tabmode=list

Sources:

https://www.fbo.gov/index?s=opportunity&mode=form&tab=core&id=6426df26341256cae99b608201c32d20

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/08/15/AR2010081502908_2.html?sid=ST2010081502719

Rug Cleaning Image:

http://www.hotfrog.ca/Companies/Professional-Oriental-Persian-Area-Rug-Cleaning

Pentagon Sets Afghan Rug Washing Contract at $1 mil to $7 mil

David — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 06:20:00 -0700

The final washing of rugs is an integral part of hand knotted rug manufacturing.

In the instance of rugs woven in Afghanistan, the vast majority are sent to Pakistan for washing and finishing, then assigned Pakistani labels when readied for export to foreign markets.

Any takers?

https://www.fbo.gov/index?s=opportunity&mode=form&id=6426df26341256cae99b608201c32d20&tab=ivl&tabmode=list

Sources:

https://www.fbo.gov/index?s=opportunity&mode=form&tab=core&id=6426df26341256cae99b608201c32d20

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/08/15/AR2010081502908_2.html?sid=ST2010081502719

Rug Cleaning Image:

http://www.hotfrog.ca/Companies/Professional-Oriental-Persian-Area-Rug-Cleaning

Reversible Tufted Rugs - Options Collection from Sphinx by Oriental Weavers

David — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 05:50:00 -0700

Sphinx by Oriental Weavers recently released their 'Options Collection,' a line of tufted rugs and carpets. Added decorative value from one side of a carpet to the other provides further design flexibility.

We were unable to find specifics as to how these rugs are made, which to some degree is probably closely guarded for the time being. In the past, we've made our sentiments about tufted rugs very clear. However, any advancement which could potentially increase the long-term decorative value and of tufted rugs (such as reversibility), is something we do support. Kudos to Sphinx for creativity.

Perhaps under a bit more scrutiny are the more 'racy' ad campaigns released by the company, created by Art Director Jim Kooi seen on their facebook page images. Two we spotted include trade ads for Majesty II ('take a walk on the wild side') and Kensington ('Breathtakingly beautiful carpet'), an Axminster carpet.

Sources:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sphinx-by-Oriental-Weavers/102329972174

http://www.owsphinx.com/page/options-collection

What to do with the Armenian Orphan Rug of Ghazir

David — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 06:14:00 -0700

Originally presented as a gift to President Calvin Coolidge in 1926, the Ghazir rug, bearing the nickname the "Armenian orphan rug" suggesting its history, but hopefully not its future.

Measuring approximately 12'x18', reportedly woven by 400 Armenian orphans and comprised of over four million knots during an 18 month period from 1924-1925. The rug had been sent to the White house soon after its completion in recognition of American help to Armenian orphans saved during 1915-1923 Armenian Genocide. The rug features animal motifs with beautiful jewel tone colors, and an inscription of the Golden Rule Gratitude in one corner.

Having been in White House storage for here is much speculation as to what political ramifications would follow if the rug were to be formally displayed.

The rug had previously been displayed in the Blue Room under Coolidge's administration, until it was brought to his North Hampton living room from 1933 - 1957, then passed to Coolidges son until 1974. The Ghazir rug was then then brought to storage in the Coolidge Homestead in Plymout, VT, then sent back to the White House collection in 1983. Since 1983, the rug has been in the posession and curation of the white house for the past 27 years. According to Armenian Weekly, the rug had been seen in the Blue Room in a photograph published during the Clinton Administration in 1995 (seen below), although there is much speculation as to whether the rug would ever again be exhibited.

"The Armenian Orphan Rug is viewed inside the White House in September 1984 by activists looking to preserve its identity. (L-R) U. S. Senator Carl Levin (D-Mich.), Dr. H. Martin Deranian, Worcester historian, and Set Momjian, a former ambassador to the United Nations."

Many believe the permanent display of the Ghazir masterpiece rug could potentially imply formal American acknowledgment of the Armenian Genocide.

Center medallion of the Ghazir Rug.

Sources for images and information:

Armenian Weekly

Only in Texas Pig Rug

David — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 16:37:00 -0700

Behnam Rugs of Texas apparently has the most difficult job when it comes to getting rugs to fly.

Perhaps cleaning as well. Either way, at least it's watermelon on the rug as opposed to a bacon breakfast. We caught this photograph on their website under "customer-pets"

Allover Tabriz style rug.

Montauk Manor and Karastan 726 of the 700 Series

David — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 15:23:00 -0700

Montauk Manor is among the most well known Condominium Resort Hotels in New York. Renown for its majestic views situated on one of the highest hills in Montauk, this Palace has some of the best creature-comforts and amenities one could ask for. Tennis, spa, indoor and outdoor pool, gorgeous condos, putting green, health club, panoramic views, and of course, 'top of the line' Karastan 700 Series rugs.

Hanging out in the lobby of Montauk Manor, we spotted no less than three Karastan 726 Heriz pattern area rugs in various sizes. Each was sure to have seen their fair share of visitor traffic over the years, yet all retained their original colors, pile, and generally were in outstanding condition. More important than anything else - in such beautiful accomodations, it's great to see Persian rug designs on the floor, a timeless style likely in the spirit of the original decor.

Unbelivably high ceilings in Montauk Manor's Lobby area. The floors in the entrance, overall, probably could have benefited from a few more area rugs or scatter rugs.

Above and Below: Karastan area rugs, pattern #726 Heriz. No exact measurements taken, but generally 700 series Karastan room size rugs run 5'9"x9', 8'8"x10'6", and 8'8" x 12'

Above: Exterior photograph from the Northwest Lawn of Montauk Manor

Above: Terrace view from Montauk Manor Condo.

Made in Persia Tag

David — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 05:41:00 -0700

Among all the different tags which may be found on the back of a hand knotted carpet, the one that always seems to excite the most is one which reads: "Made in Persia"

Although there are tactics less reputable dealers have been known to exploit, there's relatively little upside to a seller who is interested in long-term sustainability to forge such information. Generally, these tags can be trusted as being true to origin to a certain extent:

While it would make sense a rug with a tag stating 'made in Persia' may have the connotation the rug was made pre-Iran (internationally recognized post 1935), this is not always the case. Tags stating 'made in Persia' seen affixed to hand knotted rugs and carpets continued to be made and sewn to the backs of rugs beyond 1935. Despite what deductions one may make based upon the interchangeability of 'Persia/Persian' and 'Iran', the presence of such a tag does not serve as an accurate indicator of age, nor does it indicate a superior rug or carpet.

Chris Farley Foundation Rug

David — Sat, 10 Jul 2010 14:32:00 -0700

About 3'x4' in size, this authentic Wisconsin Badger rug apparently came from Chris Farley's apartment in Chicago with paperwork from the Chris Farley Foundation. The rug is actually listed under movie memorabilia. See more by clicking on the image.

See if you can find similar!

Also see:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chris_Farley

http://www.chrisfarleyfoundation.org/chrisfarleyfoundation.org/Welcome.html

Embargo on Iranian made rugs and Persian Carpets

David — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 19:16:00 -0700

July 1st, 2010

President Obama has signed the Comprehensive Iran Sanctions, Accountability, and Divestment Act of 2010 (CISADA) which was passed just one week ago by Congress to prohibit the importation of Iranian goods. The Divestment Act will be effective September 29, 2010, and does in fact encompass hand knotted rugs and carpets from Iran. For importers with overseas inventories, or rugs which are warehoused, they must be entered into U.S. territory or U.S. Customers before September 28th, 2010.

According to the Iran National Carpet Center Public Relations, this news comes amidst noted increase in exports of hand knotted rugs which has "seen considerable growth this year in terms of weight and value in the first two months."

Based on IRICA customs release data, value of exports in the first two months of 2009 was $43.6 Million and 700 tones, compared to this years $56 million dollars and 800 Tones. Tracking back to 2008, Iran's exports to the United States reached more than half a billion dollars total.

This is certainly not the first embargo on Persian rugs, and the timing has come at an ever so similar as in years past. Although great disparity between new and old rugs, in the past three years the top three highest prices paid for publically purchased hand knotted rugs sold at auction made World records. Those of which include a $9.6 million Vase Carpet, Doris Duke Isfahan for $4.45 million and another antique Ifahan for $4.3 million to name just a few. Auction prices for old Persian rugs have been hitting new highs across the board in many instances, despite signs of lackluster economies. Similarly, before the 1979 embargo during the Iranian Revolution, the Persian rug market had continued to soar worldwide, with rugs exceeding figures previously fathomable.

Sources:

MOST EXPENSIVE RUGS

http://incc.ir/en/News/FormDisplay.aspx?ID=524

http://www.irica.gov.ir/English/news/NewsViewEn.aspx?ID=234

Mouse Rug ®

David — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 21:02:00 -0700

The MouseRug®! Finally we've purchased one, and have to say it's a fantastic way to treat yourself while working at the desk. The detail of the design is unbelievable, and it's at a pretty competitive price point. We paid $19.99 for this one at a local retail Office center, although we saw some great deals for MouseRug® on eBay, including bulk lots! The design seems to be in the spirit of an old 16th century Safavid silk and metal Kilim which sold at Christies in 1999 for $1.4 million.

Chase Ultimate Rewards

David — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 20:01:00 -0700

Chase has the right idea with their most recent Ultimate Rewards mailer. "Pay for almost anything with points"

Point's well taken.

They must have been reading our minds. Clearly printed on paper to promote purchasing "anything" with use of points were a few nice rolled up hand knotted rugs. That's just about our speed. Seen below in photo numbered 1 appear to be a few silk rugs, gold selvages on the three closer to the front could indicate either Hereke or Chinese copies of Hereke, although closer inspection would really serve proper ID.

The bottom rug photographed in number 3 being unrolled appears to be a Pakistani rug from the Lahore reigion with a Turkmen design and repeating gul field.

Photographs courtesy Chase Ultimate Rewards.

Traditional Rug Repair

David — Mon, 17 May 2010 19:14:00 -0700

We came across a fantastic Rug Restoration blog run by Kosker Traditional Rug Repair. Do take a look, it's a great read and they're located in Brooklyn, NY and serve all of NYC.

Kilim Repair at Kosker Traditional Rug Repair

Craigslist Bargain Rug

David — Wed, 12 May 2010 23:26:00 -0700

Recently verified rug is a craigslist bargain: Hand knotted Pande Cameron rug with timeless colors and great design being offered for just $975 on craigslist!

RugRag.com Appraisal Value

Cheap eBay Rugs

David — Wed, 12 May 2010 22:35:00 -0700

Rug Rag Q&A

I havent looked on ebay for quite a while for hand made rugs. I am finding that the prices on the rugs on ebay are unbelievably inexpensive...what's the deal? Granted many are 100 KPI but they SAY they are hand made and maybe 50-100 years old and they are usually less than $1500.00. I dont understand.....how do I know they are genuine? are these cheap Chinese reproductions or something?

-anonymous

Response:

Hi, thanks for contacting,

This is a question which frequently comes up. A very good question too. Throughout our Archive we've touched on many aspects of ebay which you may like to take a look through. We also have another link at the bottom of this post. Both our archive and entry below will provide tips and pointers as to what to look for in a rug, including those online, and some insight as to why these rugs may be so inexpensive.

Ebay is one of the best and worst places to purchase a carpet. A complete hit or miss unless you know exactly what it is you're looking for, and how to look for it. In reality, there is no blanket statement we can make about why some rugs are cheap, or seem so cheap. What we can say is the following.

It's not uncommon knot count or KPSI would be inflated. But then again, knot count is not everything in Oriental rugs. It's also not unusual for rugs to be passed as something they're not, or defects which clearly would be rejected from a standard brick and mortar showroom to be sold for no reserve. Alternatively, for every 'bad' rug there's a good one, and sometimes the flaws and wear can only add character.

Every rug should be looked at on a one-on-one basis. When you see a rug you like, send it into our rug appraisal form, we'll get back to you on the fundamental information which you will need to know to make a more informed purchasing decision.

Please also check out our eBay Buyer's Guide to Oriental Rugs.

Thanks for contacting, we look forward to hearing from you and assisting in your next purchase!

-David Dilmaghani, Co-Founder, RugRag.com

PARKING

David — Fri, 07 May 2010 09:07:00 -0700

Contact us about:

SPORTSROIDS.COM

METRORUG(S).COM

ANTIQUERUGSNYC.COM

PERSIANRUGSNY.COM

Oriental Rug Liquidators

David — Sat, 01 May 2010 20:10:00 -0700

The service we are providing to Oriental Rug Liquidators is an example of the benefits which members of the Rug Rag Associates programs receive.

The Founders of Rug Rag have former affiliation with Oriental Rug Liquidators, and want to make this known to the consumer in the spirit of full disclosure.

Oriental Rug Liquidators

Become a Member

More Info on the RRA Rug Program

Seller Guidelines

Expensive Agra Carpet Sells at Sotheby's

David — Wed, 28 Apr 2010 16:17:00 -0700

The first five months of 2010 has already yielded a record price for Antique rugs nearly two fold the previous record set just a few years ago. While the most recent record prices were for rugs centries old, the market for 19th century carpets has continued to gain strength.

A recent example of such is lot 174 sold by Sotheby's New York this Wednesday April 28, 2010. An Agra carpet from Northwest India dated 1875 in the size of 14' x 11'2" sold for $242,500 including buyer premium.

SEE RUG ON SOTHEBY'S

Condition report as rendered by Sotheby's:

Pile generally good ranging from 1/10 inch to low to knotheads with dark brown in borders oxidized to knotheads and foundation, now with tinting and Kashmir repiling; one small (3 x 2 inch) reweave in upper left corner of field; smaller scattered reweaves in right border.
Overcast on all four sides, cloth banding sewn to reverse of all four sides.
Very flexible handle, lustrous wool, sound fabric and condition.

In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.

Most Expensive Rugs and Carpets

David — Sat, 17 Apr 2010 16:12:00 -0700

Sold for a record $9.6 Million

Above: A Kirman (Kerman) 'Vase Carpet' featured in Sotheby's sale 7845 lot 100 from Southeast Persia: A Mid-17th century in the size of 11'1" x 5' at a record sale price and per square foot basis ($173,232.97 USD per square foot) and a record price of $9.599 Million!

Above: October 7, 2009, A 400 year old hand knotted Safavid Silk Rug from Isfahan Persia sold at Sotheby's London, shattering the highest price per square foot paid for an Oriental Rug. The Rug sold for for 2,729,250 GBP including buyer Premium: $4,335,415.63 USD. Just ~ $100,000 short of the most expensive rug. A record investment of $226,853.11 per square foot (measuring 3'7" x 5'4")

Above: Measuring 7'7" x 5'7", this is not only the highest price paid for an Oriental Rug, but also the Second highest investment per square foot. The rug was last sold in 1990 to tobacco heiress Doris Duke who then donated it to the Newport Restoration Foundation after her death. It was then auctioned at Christies in 2008. Originally the rug was categorized as a Silk kashan, but has since been re-evaluated as being what would more appropriately considered an isfahan dating to the early 1600's: A Silk Safavid Carpet. Sold at Christies on June 3rd, 2008 at Christies Auctioneers in New York City with a hammer price of $4,450,500! That translates to $105,113.37 per square foot. SEE ENTIRE RUGRAG.COM AUCTION BREAKDOWN!

Above: Measuring in at a mere 6'1" x 5'4", the current world record for a Caucasian Oriental rug (Chelaberd Kazak) was sold by Freeman's Auctioneers in PA at a hammer price of $341,625. That translates to $10,534.23 per square foot.

This 16th centruy Tabriz, previously a Rothschild carpet, sold in 1999 at a Christies auction in London for a cool $2,400,000. The carpet measures 21 feet 8 inches by 11 feet 9 inches. That translates to $9,427.18 per square foot.

Above: A Safavid Carpet from the Late 16th Century, East Persia from the collections of Lili & Edmond J. Safra offered by Sotheby's for $2,032,000 (including buyer's premium) in November 2005. The carpet measures 27 feet 4 inches by 11 feet 3 inches. That translates to $6,608.21 per square foot.

Measuring in at only 3'8" x 3'9", this Chinese rug from the late Ming Dynasty was sold by Sotheby's Auctioneers in New York at a hammer price of $163,000 including buyers premium of 25%. That translates to $11,854.55 per square foot.

Often the most costly and expensive rugs are those which are very large rugs. Carpets in excess of 12' wide often require custom made looms, and extended time under comission.

Expensive Carpets 2009

Expensive Carpets 2008