The history of Egyptian carpets
Looking for an Egyptian rug?
Finding an authentic Egyptian rug can be a more complicated task than many consumers expect when shopping for a rug. In the current market, most Egyptian rugs resemble Persian rugs, and very few designs actually portray the recognizable “Egyptian look” that consumers hope to find.
Each year there are only a few carpets and rugs that reach the American market for oriental rugs representing the traditional Egyptian style. For this reason, unfortunately, Egypt is not described as a producer of carpets.
Despite the low quantity of rugs produced, they are considered some of the most intricately designed and highest quality rugs on the market.
Why are traditional ones so rare?
Excavations to recover artifacts from ancient Egypt have uncovered handlooms that date back to 2400 BC. However, modern Egyptian weaving styles originate from a much more recent design era.
The latest style of carpet weaving in Cairo actually dates back to the 16th century. Carpets woven in Cairo provide beautiful, enchanting color palettes in addition to their unique, ancient design motifs. However, by the mid-17th century, Egyptian carpet production seemed to have completely ceased and it was almost impossible to find traditional carpets anywhere on the market.
Current markets
Then, after World War II, the production of authentic carpets began again in Egypt in 1952, when several companies shifted to creating authentic Egyptian-style carpets. These companies are currently employing thousands of weavers who want to learn the beautiful art of weaving Egyptian rugs and carpets.
Yet, only a small percentage of the carpets and rugs produced by them actually make it to America.
The beauty of Egyptian carpets
Usually Egyptian or Merino wool or silk is used in authentic weaving patterns. This material is then dyed using synthetic dyes and machine spun pile. Although the styles incorporate Persian knotting and weaving techniques, the graphic design and layout associated with these styles differ from other oriental rug styles on the market.
Typically, Egyptian designs and motifs include geometric patterns and intricate floral motifs. These designs are very sophisticated and feature a wide variety of colors that can complement any living space.
Are they worth it?
Egyptian rugs are hard to find and can be quite expensive. However, a rug of this quality and beauty is a great asset to any living space. Although Egypt is not generally well known for its carpets, the carpets are beautifully crafted and depict the best qualities of carpet weaving that any carpet producing country has to offer.
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