Rug making is among the most established of human industries, with many different varieties and techniques to be found all over the world. Nobody is really sure how old the art of rug making is, with some intact examples dating way back to the 5th - 4th century BC. 

One thing is for certain, rug making has a strong presence in many cultures around the globe, each steeped in their own history and unique styles. But with so many different styles of rugs to choose from, it can be a little overwhelming. 

That is why we thought it would be a good idea to give you a very brief run-down of some of the most popular traditional rugs and their history. Read on to becomes a rug aficionado and wow your friends with your rug based knowledge. 

Afghan Rugs

Traditional techniques, natural dyes, and a distinctive visual style make Afghan rugs some of the most recognisable and sought after in the world. Often making use of elongated human and animal forms and repeated octagonal ‘elephant foot’ design and iconography relating to the traditional nomadic lifestyle of the people. 

Afghan rugs typically come in different shapes and sizes but are predominantly red. Due to their ordinarily bright colours, using an Afghan rug in a minimalist room can create a quality, desirable centrepiece that draws the eye. 

Armenian Rugs

Armenia has a rich history of carpet making and many different styles can be found within the country. Carpet weaving has traditionally been extremely common and something that nearly every family once did. 

Designs include, but aren’t limited to sacred symbols, religious icons and ornamental patterns. A wide range of natural colours are used when creating these beautiful rugs. A well placed Armenian rug can be the perfect addition to a neutral room, helping add some colour and earthy tones with colours that are too bold and loud. 

Chinese Rugs

China is another country with a long history of rug production. However, unlike other countries, China didn’t export their rugs to the world until relatively recently. Today, of course, many rugs are produced in China and many different styles are manufactured and imitated.

Chinese rugs can be a great option if you want to grab a quality and stylish addition to your home at an affordable price. 

Indian Rugs

Carpet weaving in India dates back roughly a thousand years, brought by the first wave of Muslim conquerors from the west. The Persian styles they brought with them eventually integrated and blended with Indian art, taking on a new direction.

Indian carpets as we know them today have become renowned for their excellent quality, intricate designs and realism in the artistic sense. As you’d expect for a country of its size and diversity, you can find many different styles and production techniques in modern-day India.

As India uses high-quality natural materials, the rugs produced in the country tend to be highly hard-wearing and long lasting, making them a great investment piece for your home. 

Persian Rugs

Perhaps the most well-known style of carpet, and with good reason. Rug production in Iran dates back to the Bronze Age, with the earliest surviving examples dating back to the 16th century.

Persian carpets can vary greatly but commonly feature design elements such as vines, arabesques, palmettes, cloud bands, medallions and geometric patterns. You will not generally find depictions of animals or humans due to the influence of Islam, which forbids it.

Iranian carpets are widely considered to be the finest quality carpets in the world and their designs have been imitated for centuries. Iran is still the world’s largest producer of carpets, accounting for three-quarters of all carpets manufactured.

Persian rugs are a fantastic way to add some luxury to your home, Their recognisable design makes them the perfect statement piece, which will really wow your guests. 

Scandinavian Rugs

Scandinavian rugs have proven very popular in recent times thanks to their clean aesthetic and use of colour - fitting will with modern design trends. Scandinavia has one of the richest histories of rug making and the most distinctive styles in all of Europe.

If you are looking for a rug with a more simplistic design and neutral tones, then a Scandinavian rug muigh tjust be the best option for you. 

Turkish Rugs 

Turkey is another country with a very long history of carpet making, used for decorative and insulative purposes. Handmade from wool or cotton, sometimes with the addition of silk, they are used to cover not just floors but also walls and doorways to keep the cold at bay.

With hundreds of years of rug making history, many of the rugs created by the large Turkish rug makers are in high demand (for good reason) and therefore can be expensive and luxurious than rugs from other popular rug making countries. 

A World of Rugs 

The world of rugs has a lot to offer. Whatever your style or preference, each country in this list provides some great styles, themes and benefits. Here at Land of Rugs we offer some of the best rugs from around the world. Check out our extensive collection where you will be sure to find something that meets your needs and budget. 

If you're struggling to keep your rug from moving, read our blog post How Can I Stop Rugs from Moving On my Carpet.