Brief Information About Tibetan/Nepalese Rugs

The historical origins of Tibetan rugs are unclear. It is believed that the art of rug weaving in this Himalayan region is part of an ages old tradition practiced primarily for use in the home. Originally rugs were produced for mats, door covers, bed covers and pillar rugs which were placed around columns in Buddhist temples. Traditional Tibetan weavings generally reflect the influence of the Buddhist religion in Tibetan culture and art.

Following China's suppression of Tibetan nationals in 1959 thousands of Tibetans fled Tibet as refugees and settled in neighboring countries. Rug production began again in Tibetan refugee camps primarily in Pokhara and the Kathmandu valley of Nepal. By the mid 1970's rugs woven by Tibetans in exile were being exported to Europe in small quantities. During the 1980's Tibetan/Nepalese rugs began to receive increasing attention in the United States. First limited to art collectors and interior decorators, Tibetan/Nepalese rugs have now caught the interest of many Americans who recognize the exceptional value and durability of these rugs. Due to their handcrafted appearance, characterized by highly stylized patterns and beautifully orchestrated color schemes, American consumers have come to appreciate the timeless beauty of these rugs.

The "weavers-in-exile" have begun to expand their artistic horizons. Chinese design elements such as the dragon, phoenix, and lotus symbols can now be found in Tibetan/Nepalese rugs. Patterns from other non Tibetan traditions such as Persian, Turkish, French, and Native American Southwestern motifs are now used by Tibetan artisans. In addition weavers have begun to work closely with consumers to bring to life individual designs and color schemes.

Whatever their ethnic origins, Tibetan/nepalese rugs have a compelling simplicity enhanced by a color spectrum spanning the rainbow from rich reds and blues to the softer lavenders and grays. Both natural vegetable and synthetic dyes are used to enrich the artisans palette of colors.

Technical Aspects of Tibetan/Nepalese Rugs

Generally the wool used in these fine rugs is carded and spun by hand. This gives the rugs a wonderful look with a depth and richness achieved through subtle variations of color and texture. Some rugs are woven exclusively from Himalayan wool, which is characteristically flexible, strong, lustrous and springy. The rich luster of these rugs is actually enhanced by the passage of time. However, the majority of rugs are woven from a blend of Tibetan and New Zealand wools.

Knot counts determine the depth of the pile and the intricacy of design. Counts vary from thirty to one hundred and fifty knots per square inch. The majority of rugs produced have an average knot count of about fifty knots per square inch. The looms used today are larger than their native ancestors. Using these larger looms we can meet the demand for room sized rugs.

While the looms currently in use are larger than the traditional looms, the ancient techniques that characterize Tibetan rugs have been maintained. Tibetan weaving utilizes the "axis rod", (warp divider), and "gauge rod", (needle), which are tools not found in other rug weaving traditions. The use of these unique methods provides the characteristic surface texture found in all genuine Tibetan/Nepalese rugs.

Tibetan/Nepalese rugs are increasingly coming into their own in the United States causing considerable excitement among American buyers. Because they impart the rustic charm of their traditional Tibetan counterparts while featuring fashion oriented colors and designs they can be seen in an increasing number of American homes. Once the province of museums and rich collectors, these fine rugs with bold, eclectic patterns and colors are now affordable for the homeowner. Heightened by the rich texture characteristic of their ancient counterparts these rugs reveal a quality at once primitive and sophisticated. Their timeless beauty once limited to the far reaches of Tibet is now available to consumers around the world.