Chinese Rugs – Chinese Artistry in Rugs
Chinese Rugs
The Chinese civilization counts among the oldest of the same in the world. For centuries Chinese silk and several other articles have reigned supreme in their popularity in the ancient world particularly in the west. Tapestry and weaving too was an inherent Chinese art that was of a high quality. It may be seen quite adeptly in the work of Chinese rugs. The rugs made in china have a distinct quality in every aspect that has set them apart till today. There has been very little that is incorporated from the outside world and a great deal that’s developed within china itself.
Main Features of a Chinese Rug
- Chinese rugs are characterized by the use of uncommon colors
- The design structures are also very simplistic in nature
- There is a particular movement of the motifs and design patterns
- Themes of designs are mainly inspired from nature – animals, clouds, flowers to name a few
- Chinese rugs often come with a border
- The designs motifs are made independent of one another and stand on their own in a pattern of a rug
Fabrics of Chinese Rugs
The usual fabric used for Chinese rugs is silk. However there are several factors that go against the preference of silk as the chosen fabric. Chiefly among these is the issue of durability. Silk fails to sustain heavy and continued usage because of which it may be quick to bear a worn out look. Then there is the issue of maintenance of silk carpets. Primarily it may be very expensive. Secondly silk does not take the use of water on it very well and may result in damage of the rug. However in the modern times there are wool and silk that are also blend in the making of Chinese rugs. Wool quality that is found in various province of china are also very soft and lends a fine quality to the rugs made out of them.
Different Types of Chinese Rugs
There are several types of Chinese rugs that may be segregated on the basis of the regions in China. In all there are 4 types of rugs that may be classified on this basis.
- Xin-Jiang – This is a unique blend of Chinese and Turkish designs. Floral motifs of Turkish origin are often seen with a spread of Chinese cloud. There is an eclectic blend of the two distinct types of color palates as well.
- Mongolia – The rugs from the mainland Chinese province of Inner Mongolia these rugs are of a thicker quality and consist of a thicker pile. The design patterns are geometric in nature.
- Ningxia – This is the most popular among all the four types of Chinese rugs. This is because of its wool quality and the pleasant usage of beautiful colors.
- Tianjin – These rugs differ from traditional Chinese rugs as they were primarily designed by the Europeans for export purpose. These are marked by natural colors and the soft quality of the wool used in its making.