Nepalese rugs originated in the Himalayan region where the art of rug weaving is considered an age-old tradition. Initially, the rug patterns were influenced by the Buddhist religion found within Tibetan art and culture. But by the late 1950s, many Tibetans had fled to Nepal and India, seeking refuge from the invasion by China. The Tibetans, now refugees, needed to re-establish there lives and began to sell the rugs to earn a living. A few decades later, they were exporting them to Europe, and today, they are sold and sought-after around the world – from art collectors to rug lovers.
The wool comes from the sheep in the high grasslands of the Himalayan plains. The wool is comprised of long fibers and it is very durable, yet has a soft and luxurious quality.
These rugs have a ribbed texture that is akin to a very wide-wail corduroy, but with a silk-like finish and feel. The finishing step entails very detailed trimming to ensure no irregularities in the pile. The rug is washed, dried in the open air and sun, and given a final trim.
This weaving process is called Senna looping and differs from the method used with Persian knotting wherein each knot is tied, trimmed and packed before the next one. Senna loops are tied off only when the weaver changes colour or finishes a row.
Nepalese rugs are very beautiful with a handcrafted feel, but they are also very durable. They can be found in a wide array of colours and the designs range from contemporary to transitional.
See also: The Ardabil
