There is a lot of talk about antique rugs much like other arts and crafts in this world. Antique rugs are praised for their elegance, resilience and durability - but how does the industry classify a rug as "antique"?
When talking about antiques, it is a common term in the industry to call a rug antique if it has been produced in the 1900s, regardless of where it was created or what style it is. Simply put, a rug may be considered antique if it is over 100 years old. Aged for more than a century, these rugs have notable qualities in the materials they make use of. For some, their materials may already rare or obsolete as they were paramount during the 1900s. Now, traits from this rug may differ according to the weaver, design and materials utilized. But it is almost always the case that the dyes used are derived from natural sources, whether it be from plants, minerals or animals. However, we can not exclude the possibility that synthetic dyes were also applied since their creation in the 1870s may have influenced the manufacturing fiber color in a number of so called antique rugs.
In the quest to find out if a rug is antique or not, we have been provided standard parameters. However, two issues have came up regarding this. Firstly, the 1900 definition worked better while we were still living in the 20th century. The date that was presented gave clear demarcations of rugs woven in the 19th century and those made in the 20th century. However, now that we are living in the 21st century, why is it that 20th century rugs are still not considered as "antiques rugs" given that they are already 100 years older? Does this mean that age is not enough to qualify a rug as such? More than that, there is also another issue concerning the 1900 theory. Between December 1899 and January 1900, no pivotal changes occurred in the weaving industry. Even during the 1900 and 1901. Considering that the type of furnishings that were made prior to the Industrial Revolution were what we oftentimes term as "antique"; those periods that did not experience any dramatic change or rise in the manufacturing and craftsmanship cannot be deemed as qualified. For example, during the Safavid Dynasty (16th to 18th century), the creation of Persian rugs was at a climax. The arts were strong and well defined. Products then, created under such conditions, exemplify valuable antiquity, and should clearly be considered as "antique".
The term "antique" today obviously means more than just reaching a really old age. It also denotes a certain air of esteem and profoundness, not found in modern day decorative pieces. Hence, a rug that is more than a hundred years old cannot be easily considered as antique if it does not exhibit unique and impressive features. On the other hand, if a contemporary article displays certain antique qualities, it cannot be directly called antique, since its just been recently made. It's a bit complicated, but more less, understandable.
Now, it cannot be denied that antique rugs fetch a fancy price in the market. After all, they are of great value. However, it is unfair to disregard any rugs produced less than a century ago because they do not fit in to the presented parameters. Those semi antique rugs made from the years 1919 up to 1939, and modern rugs that were manufactured after the end of World War II, may also boast high quality and craftsmanship, even matching that of antique rugs. Simply said, try giving all types of rugs a chance, regardless if they are antique or not. At a low price, you may be fortunate enough to find a modern day antique looking rug for your household. But if you are willing to pay the price, antique rugs will certainly be worth it.
When talking about antiques, it is a common term in the industry to call a rug antique if it has been produced in the 1900s, regardless of where it was created or what style it is. Simply put, a rug may be considered antique if it is over 100 years old. Aged for more than a century, these rugs have notable qualities in the materials they make use of. For some, their materials may already rare or obsolete as they were paramount during the 1900s. Now, traits from this rug may differ according to the weaver, design and materials utilized. But it is almost always the case that the dyes used are derived from natural sources, whether it be from plants, minerals or animals. However, we can not exclude the possibility that synthetic dyes were also applied since their creation in the 1870s may have influenced the manufacturing fiber color in a number of so called antique rugs.
In the quest to find out if a rug is antique or not, we have been provided standard parameters. However, two issues have came up regarding this. Firstly, the 1900 definition worked better while we were still living in the 20th century. The date that was presented gave clear demarcations of rugs woven in the 19th century and those made in the 20th century. However, now that we are living in the 21st century, why is it that 20th century rugs are still not considered as "antiques rugs" given that they are already 100 years older? Does this mean that age is not enough to qualify a rug as such? More than that, there is also another issue concerning the 1900 theory. Between December 1899 and January 1900, no pivotal changes occurred in the weaving industry. Even during the 1900 and 1901. Considering that the type of furnishings that were made prior to the Industrial Revolution were what we oftentimes term as "antique"; those periods that did not experience any dramatic change or rise in the manufacturing and craftsmanship cannot be deemed as qualified. For example, during the Safavid Dynasty (16th to 18th century), the creation of Persian rugs was at a climax. The arts were strong and well defined. Products then, created under such conditions, exemplify valuable antiquity, and should clearly be considered as "antique".
The term "antique" today obviously means more than just reaching a really old age. It also denotes a certain air of esteem and profoundness, not found in modern day decorative pieces. Hence, a rug that is more than a hundred years old cannot be easily considered as antique if it does not exhibit unique and impressive features. On the other hand, if a contemporary article displays certain antique qualities, it cannot be directly called antique, since its just been recently made. It's a bit complicated, but more less, understandable.
Now, it cannot be denied that antique rugs fetch a fancy price in the market. After all, they are of great value. However, it is unfair to disregard any rugs produced less than a century ago because they do not fit in to the presented parameters. Those semi antique rugs made from the years 1919 up to 1939, and modern rugs that were manufactured after the end of World War II, may also boast high quality and craftsmanship, even matching that of antique rugs. Simply said, try giving all types of rugs a chance, regardless if they are antique or not. At a low price, you may be fortunate enough to find a modern day antique looking rug for your household. But if you are willing to pay the price, antique rugs will certainly be worth it.
About the author: A. Pakdaman is part of Bella Rugs which have years of experience in finding the best rugs in the world including antique rugs. They are third generation direct importers of fine quality rugs. They have personal rug consultants to provide the expertise needed to assist you in making the selection.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=A_Pakdaman
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