Traditional Armenian rugs, sometimes called Armenian carpets, are handmade textiles that come from Armenia’s deep cultural heritage. These rugs are more than just floor coverings-they are woven pieces of history, made with wool and silk, where each knot represents ancient customs, beliefs, and artistic skill. The tradition of rug making stretches from pre-Christian times to today, giving Armenian rugs an important place in textile history.
The term “Armenian carpet” covers many types of rugs and woven pieces. These textiles were, and still are, used for many things in Armenian homes and churches: they covered floors, decorated walls and furniture, acted as entrance curtains, and even served as altar cloths. For many years, weaving was a daily activity, mostly done by women, but some men took part, especially in areas like Karabakh.
What Are Traditional Armenian Rugs?
Traditional Armenian rugs are important symbols of Armenian culture and art. They are known for their complex designs, bright colors, and careful handiwork, making them popular with collectors and art lovers. The knowledge of weaving is passed down through families, helping to keep this tradition alive.
Armenian has two main words for carpet: “karpet” (կարպետ) and “gorg” (գորգ). “Karpet” usually means non-pile rugs, while “gorg” refers to pile rugs with knots. The English word “carpet” is thought to come from the Armenian “kapert,” meaning woven cloth, a term that likely spread to Europe in the 1200s through Armenian trade.
Unique Features of Armenian Rugs
Some main aspects make Armenian rugs stand out, including their bold and rich colors-red, blue, green, and gold are most common. The deep red traditionally comes from a natural dye made from the “vordan” insect, found in the Ararat valley. The city of Artashat was so famous for making red dye, it was called “the city of the color red” by the historian Yaqut.
Variety in pattern is another key trait. While older patterns are kept, each weaver often adds unique variations in design or color, so every rug is special. Favorite colors include soft blues, greens, coral, gold, and tan. Brown outlines, made from wool dyed with iron pyrite, were used because weavers knew this color would fade faster and gently highlight the main design over time.
The Meaning of Motifs and Symbols
Armenian rugs carry complex patterns filled with meaning. Motifs (repeated design elements) and symbols can show beliefs, history, and stories. Common designs are geometric patterns, flowers, and animals like dragons and eagles. In fact, some rugs were named for the animals they featured, like artsvagorgs (eagle rugs) and vishapagorgs (dragon rugs).
After Armenia became the world’s first Christian nation in 301 AD, Christian symbols like the cross began to appear in many carpets. Armenian rugs also have human and bird figures not usually found on non-Armenian rugs. Sometimes, these symbols were inspired by Asian designs, showing cultural exchange with places like India and China as early as the 4th century AD.
The History of Armenian Rugs and Carpet Weaving
Armenian rugs have a long history, dating back thousands of years. This craft has survived many changes in society, war, and technology, showing the strength and creativity of the Armenian people.
Ancient Beginnings
People in Armenia began weaving rugs in prehistoric times. Archaeological digs have found rug pieces from as early as the 7th century BC. Complete rugs from ancient times are rare because they are so delicate, but even the fragments show how old the art is.
The oldest known knotted carpet is the Pazyryk carpet, found in a frozen tomb in Siberia and made between the 5th and 3rd centuries BC. Experts believe it may be Armenian because of its structure and patterns, especially the use of the double knot and Armenian red dye. Designs on this rug are similar to Armenian historical art, and even the historian Herodotus spoke of brightly colored Caucasian rugs in the 5th century BC.
Growth in the Christian Era
When Armenia became Christian in 301 AD, its rugs began to feature Christian themes. During the Middle Ages, Armenian carpets were traded widely, even as far as China. Medieval Chinese art sometimes shows rugs with Armenian-style crosses. Rugs’ patterns often copied those from Armenian architecture, stone carvings (khachkars), and manuscripts. Books and travelers’ accounts, like those from Marco Polo, also mention the fame of Armenian rugs during this time.
Impact of the Armenian Genocide
The Armenian Genocide (1894-1923) badly affected rug making, especially in Western Armenia (modern Turkey). Many Armenian weavers were lost or displaced, hurting the tradition. Some orphaned children were taught rug-making by aid workers, leading to the creation of “orphan-rugs.” One famous orphan rug, made between 1924 and 1925, was gifted to the White House to thank the American people.
The Soviet Era
After the formation of Soviet Armenia in 1920, rug making changed. The Soviet government encouraged rugs to be made in factories instead of homes and discouraged religious patterns. However, some traditional methods survived, especially in small villages. The main designs and weaving techniques stayed the same, even though more factory-made “Soviet carpets” were introduced.
Modern Times
After the Soviet Union fell, Armenian rug making was revived by private businesses and families, especially in Armenia and Nagorno-Karabakh. These new workshops often return to older patterns and natural dyes. Diaspora Armenians (those living outside Armenia) also help keep the tradition alive by organizing shows and sharing knowledge. Today’s weavers may mix traditional designs with modern styles, but still respect the old ways.
Cultural and Religious Importance
Traditional Armenian rugs are important symbols for Armenian culture and faith. They often carry deep symbolic meanings and help connect families to their heritage and religious traditions.
Examples of Symbolism
In Armenian rugs, every color and design often means something special. Patterns include shapes like diamonds or stars, flowers, and animals such as dragons and eagles, which sometimes have mythological meanings. The Christian cross is a common theme, especially after the spread of Christianity. Some designs are borrowed from manuscripts and church carvings, and bright red dyes reinforce the link to Armenian history.
Rugs in Daily Life and Faith
Armenian rugs have always been part of home, church, and ceremonial life. They were used on floors, walls, thrones, and during special events like weddings and funerals. Some rugs hid Christian symbols in their patterns during times of oppression. The Armenian Church also valued these textiles as works of art and sources of spiritual meaning.
Main Types and Places of Armenian Rugs
Armenian rugs differ by region and city, reflecting each area’s traditions, resources, and cultural exchanges. Each area has its own style, material, and patterns.
Village Rugs versus City Rugs
There are two main types:
- Village rugs: Made by women in the countryside, using local wool. These rugs are thicker, have bolder and simpler geometric patterns, and feel more rustic. “Kazak” rugs are an example.
- City rugs: Made in towns or cities, using finer materials and more types of dyes. These are tightly woven, with short piles and more detailed medallion or floral patterns. They show the skill of experienced artisans.
Famous Regional Styles
| Style | Region | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Kazak | Between Tiflis and Erevan | Large bold patterns, bright colors, several kinds (Bordjalou, Erevan area, etc.) |
| Karabagh | Karabakh | Thick all-wool rugs, simple patterns, famous for “Eagle” or “Sunburst” motifs, often with Armenian script |
| Genje | Genje (now Ganja, Azerbaijan) | Colorful side bindings, repeated geometric motifs, blue and white shades |
| Shirvan | East of Genje, south of Caucasus | Shorter pile, finer weave, Persian-inspired flowers, many are prayer rugs |
Many rugs carry Armenian inscriptions, making it easier to trace their makers and origins.
Materials and Techniques in Armenian Rug Weaving
Armenian rugs are known for their quality. This comes from careful selection of wool, dyes, and the use of traditional weaving methods.
Common Weaving Methods
Most Armenian rugs are made by hand. The main method is double-knotting (Ghiordes knot), which ties yarn around two threads, making the rug strong and giving it a special texture. Some rugs are flat-woven, using the kilim method. The steps include:
- Setting vertical wool threads (warp) on a loom
- Inserting horizontal (weft) threads across the loom
- Add knots for pile, or weave for flat designs
- After weaving, the rug is cut from the loom; ends form the fringe; edges are finished for strength
The number of knots per area (knot count) is an indicator of the rug’s quality.
Natural Dyes and Yarns
Old Armenian rugs are famous for their natural colors, most made from local plants, insects, and minerals. High-quality sheep wool and sometimes silk or cotton are used. The widely known red dye is made from the “vordan karmir” bug, only found in the Ararat valley. Other colors come from natural sources like madder root (red), indigo (blue), and local minerals. The weavers often chose colors and dyestuffs that age gracefully over time, which is part of their charm.
How to Identify Real Armenian Rugs
Telling an actual Armenian rug from others takes some knowledge. Specific traits, methods, and historical clues make Armenian rugs unique.
Inscriptions and Signs
Many Armenian rugs carry writing. This might be the weaver’s name, date, or a dedication, often in the Armenian script. Christian symbols and cross patterns are also good clues to origin. The Armenian Rugs Society and other groups collect and catalog these, using them to help identify unattributed rugs by comparing style and technique.
How They Differ from Other Rugs
While Armenian, Turkish, and Persian rugs can look alike, Armenian rugs have certain differences:
- Field and medallion arrangements mostly based on geometric shapes
- More Christian symbols (crosses, especially, and sometimes figures and birds)
- Distinct color choices, like soft shades and Armenian red
- Usually made with the symmetrical knot (Ghiordes)
- Clear pattern outlines with brown wool that fades
Some rugs from the Caucasus region may be listed under general names like “Kazak,” but a close look at knots, materials, and motifs often reveals Armenian heritage.
Carpet Makers and Preservation Societies
Several manufacturers and groups continue to keep the Armenian rug tradition going, working to keep old techniques and styles alive.
Leading Producers and Workshops
Some prominent Armenian rug firms since 2016 include:
- Arm Carpet (Yerevan): Operating since 1924, privatized in 2002.
- Yengoyan Carpets (Karmirgyugh): Since 1958, privatized in 1996.
- Jrashogh Ijevan Carpets (Ijevan): Since 1959.
- Tufenkian Artisan Carpets (Yerevan): Since 1994, blends old and new designs.
- Megerian Carpets (Yerevan): Since 2000, focuses on handmade carpets.
- Artsakh Carpet (Stepanakert): Since 2013, handmade rugs from Artsakh region.
Many small workshops and home weavers also work to bring back traditional practices, often using local, hand-spun wool and natural dyes to closely match classic designs.
The Armenian Rugs Society
The Armenian Rugs Society, founded in Washington D.C. in 1980, is devoted to finding, preserving, and sharing knowledge about Armenian rugs. The Society helps correct historical mislabeling and keeps archives, especially of rugs with inscriptions, to make sure Armenia’s contribution to rug art is recognized. Their work is especially important because events like the Armenian Genocide and Soviet changes threatened the survival and proper recognition of these crafts.
How to Care for Antique Armenian Rugs
Old Armenian rugs are not just decorations; they are treasured historical objects that need proper care to last for years.
Storage, Cleaning, and Repair Guidance
- Storage: Keep rugs clean and totally dry before storing. Roll (don’t fold) around a sturdy, acid-free tube, and wrap in cotton or Tyvek. Avoid plastic. Store in a cool, dry, dark place, away from sunlight and damp. Regularly check for pests like moths.
- Cleaning: Vacuum gently with low power, not on the fringe. For deep cleaning, use only professionals who know how to handle antique or oriental rugs. Don’t use strong chemicals, steam, or washing machines. Blot spills quickly with a dry cloth, avoid rubbing.
- Repair: For any damage, use professional restorers who specialize in antique rugs. Don’t try to fix it yourself-bad repairs may lower value and cause more harm. Regularly rotate the rug to even out wear.
Where to See and Buy Armenian Rugs
If you are interested in Armenian rugs, you can visit museums or buy them from dealers. Here’s how:
Museum and Exhibition Viewing
Many museums have Armenian rugs on display. The Hermitage Museum in Russia has the Pazyryk carpet. The Armenian Museum of America holds other examples. Look for exhibitions about Armenian textiles or oriental rugs for more viewing options. Checking museum websites or asking rug societies about upcoming displays can help, too.
Tips When Buying Armenian Rugs
- Authenticity: Check for Armenian inscriptions, Christian motifs (like crosses), and details in pattern and construction. Most use the symmetrical knot. Knowing what real Armenian designs look like helps.
- Dealers: Buy from dealers who have good reputations and specialize in Armenian or antique rugs, like HYE ANTIQUES or Nazmiyal Antique Rugs.
- Condition and Age: Antique rugs are usually over 100 years old. Note any wear or repairs, as heavily damaged rugs are less valuable and cost more to fix.
- Regional Styles: Learn about different styles-Kazak, Karabagh, Genje, Shirvan- to know which you prefer.
- Natural Dyes: Rugs with natural dyes look better as they age and are more sought-after than those with harsh artificial dyes.
- Documentation: Ask for any records about the rug’s history. Groups like the Armenian Rugs Society or books on Armenian carpets are good for background research.
- Purpose: Think about whether you want the rug as a financial investment or simply to enjoy in your home, as both goals are common.
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