Collector's Guide to Carpets and Rugs

Design is a central issue in rug collecting. It is a key factor in recognizing the type of a rug and placing it within a a historical sequence or development. Rating design quality in critical terms is also considered the mark of a real collector, one who has acquired an “eye.” An understanding of design is important in assessing if a rug is rare or important, or more culturally authentic. It is also critical in determining if a rug is late, simplified, confused, or degenerate, all things that collectors seek to avoid.