Peking Chinese Oriental Rugs: A Rich Tapestry of Tradition and Artistry

Peking Chinese Oriental rugs are a fascinating and intricate addition to any home or collector’s repertoire. With a rich history dating back centuries, these rugs have become prized for their unique designs, superb craftsmanship, and lasting quality.

In this blog post, we will delve into the origins, characteristics, and value of Peking Chinese Oriental rugs, allowing you to appreciate their true beauty and artistry.

Origins of Peking Chinese Oriental Rugs

The Peking Chinese Oriental rug tradition can be traced back to the 15th century, during the reign of the Ming Dynasty in China. However, it was only in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, under the rule of the Qing Dynasty, that Peking Rugs gained prominence in the international market. As the capital city, Beijing (formerly known as Peking) became a hub for rug production, and many of the rugs produced there were exported to the West.

Characteristics of Peking Chinese Oriental Rugs

Designs and Motifs

Peking Chinese Oriental rugs are characterized by their distinctive designs, which often feature a central medallion, floral patterns, and intricate, scrolling vine motifs. They are known for their subtle, muted color palettes, with shades of blue, beige, and rust being especially popular. The use of color is often restrained, allowing for intricate patterns and designs to take center stage.

Materials and Construction

Peking Chinese Oriental rugs are typically made using high-quality wool hand-knotted onto a cotton foundation, but there are also rugs made of fine silk. The wool is often hand-spun, providing a unique texture and appearance. The knot density of wool Peking rugs can vary widely, ranging from 60 to 200 knots per square inch. While higher knot density generally indicates a more intricate and detailed design, it is not the sole determinant of a rug’s quality or value.

Size and Shape

Peking Chinese Oriental rugs come in various sizes and shapes, including small mats, room-sized carpets, and runners. The rugs can be found in square and rectangular formats, with the latter being more common. The diversity of sizes and shapes available means that there is likely a Peking rug to suit any space or design preference.

Value and Collectability

Peking Chinese Oriental rugs are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike due to their unique designs, craftsmanship, and rarity. Older, well-preserved rugs from the late 19th and early 20th centuries are especially prized, representing a piece of Chinese history and culture. Several factors, including age, condition, rarity, and the intricacy of the design, determine the value of a Peking rug.

Weekly, Oriental Rug Salon interviews our resident Rug Master, Troy Lusk, and asks him to identify and discuss different types of hand-knotted rugs so that our staff, clients, and rug lovers can learn more about Oriental, Persian, and other types of area rugs.

If you’d like to learn more about Oriental rugs or how their made, cleaned, and appraised, please join our Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/OrientalRugSalon/ or feel free to visit us anytime on our webpage at https://orientalrugsalon.com/

Oriental Rug Salon is a full-service area rug cleaning, repair, restoration, and appraisal company serving clients throughout the United States.  Our area rug cleaning services are performed by hand using gentle cleaning agents and old-world cleaning techniques. Our cleaning professionals are highly trained and experienced, and our Rug Master supervises their efforts.

Oriental Rug Salon services clients throughout the United States, and our 6,000-square-foot facility s located in sunny SW Florida.  We are a Certified Partner with the Prestigious Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), the International Carpet & Rug Institute (CRI), and a WoolSafe Approved Service Provider.

If we can ever be of service, please call us at 239-424-8171.  We offer FREE pick-up and delivery for most area rugs throughout Lee, Collier, and Charlotte County, Florida. We receive area rugs daily from clients throughout the United States for cleaning, restoration, or repair.

Peking Chinese Oriental rugs are a beautiful and enduring representation of Chinese artistry and craftsmanship. Their unique designs, combined with the history and culture they represent, make them a highly desirable addition to any home or collection. Whether you are an avid collector or simply appreciate the beauty of a well-crafted rug, Peking Chinese Oriental rugs are a testament to the lasting appeal of traditional textiles.

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