Rug Origins: Mongolian Rugs

Mongolian Rugs have a long history going back to the Mongol period in China. Unfortunately, very few if any early antique rugs of this kind are actually conserved. Yet we can find evidence of their existence embodied in Chinese manuscripts, where they appear familiar style that is still produced and represented to this day.

Mongolian carpets are unlike many other countries that have their own symbols and style, the production of their rugs comes from outside influences mainly from China. Since the local carpet weaving industry is acute compared to larger areas, antique Mongolian carpets are uncommon possessions.

Some of the Chinese-influenced patterns you will find in such rugs are spandrels, infinite knots, shou symbols, tigers and Buddhist themes. Showing a slight predilection for eastern motifs and ideologies that use negative space efficiently and include a less that compliment contemporary interiors. They utilize a translucent composition against a solid foundation. Colors are easy and down-to-earth with stress on indirect mixing of hues and variation. Mongolian Weavers practice more defined color arrangements than Chinese weavers, but they also used colors contrarily to produce decorative differences in textural patterns.

When Compared to the Chinese or Indian rug industry, today’s Mongolian rugs are minor on the marketplace since only a small fraction come from the country that make them. There is small interest in this antique market yet this may change as their beauty and style is apparent and it is easy to become charmed with their cultural weaving.