What are Nepali Rugs?

 

Are you looking for that little piece of interior design that will reflect your taste? Perhaps an Oriental rug that still hasn’t caught your eye, or you don’t know where to start looking at. In this case, the Chinese influenced Nepali rugs might be right up your alley. The Nepali are completely woolen rugs with elaborate designs paired with perfectly mellowed tones of colors. Best of all, Nepali rugs aren’t too expensive among the Oriental and Persian rug market.

 

History behind Nepali Rugs

Nepali rugs originate from Tibet—in turn, their category fall under Tibetan rug and, more-so, Tribal rug. Their history dates back all the way to the 16^th century, yet didn’t meet the spotlight until the British invaded Tibet in the 19^th century.

The production on Nepali rugs rose in the 1970’s in Nepal and, therefore, came the name ‘Nepali Rugs’. The natives there increased the production line from small area sized wool rugs into larger pieces that furthered their demand across the European market. They’re one of the most sought after Tribal rugs in the world.

 
Materials and Texture

Nepali rugs were initially made of highland sheep’s wool from Tibet. As time went on, Nepali rugs adopted high quality wool from New Zealand and India. The weft and wrap were normally made of wool or a mixture of cotton wool whereas their piles were wool and sometimes silk. These rugs have an opaque and course texture, perfect for keeping anything warm among a cold environment.   

 

Colors and Designs

 

 

The Nepali tribal rugs, around the 19th century and earlier on, limited themselves in using only a select number of colors due to their usage of natural dyes. Amongst these dyes are red, blue, yellow, green, grey and brown. Later on in the 20th century, the weavers developed a greater use of design and color in their rugs.

The patterns of designs used can be classified into two main types: medallion and checkered patterns inherited from the Chinese culture. After the 19th century these designs evolved into utilizing clouds, floral designs, and ancient animals like dragons and phoenixes. Their work normally consisted of repeating patterns or a big central piece in the middle in the carpet’s body while using different colors creating an original contrast.

 

Available Sizes

 

The authentic Oriental Nepali rugs are available in small sizes which were considered sleeping carpets known as ‘Khadens’. They measure around 3 x 5 feet. In modern times, the Nepali can be found in a several different sizes that are assumed to have been made-up by Western traders. Check out our Nepali rugs for sale.