Rug Making is a traditional branch of the Armenian Art and one of the symbols of the Armenian folk culture. It originated in the 3-4th millenniums B.C., the evidence of which are the working tools, appliances, and the remains of fabric and material found during the excavations.
This branch of culture became famous, especially in the early medieval period, during the reign of the Bagratuni. Still, at that time, Armenian rugs were already famous in the international market. The foreign historians and travelers (Herodotus, Marco Polo) mentioned the high quality of the Armenian rugs in their works. Many ancient rugs are kept until now.
The oldest preserved Armenian rug “Yerakhoran” (“Three-Apsed” rug) dates back to 1202 and is kept in Vienna. Other notable carpets are “Anahit” (14th century) and “Guhar” (1680). All the mentioned carpets have Armenian inscriptions on them.
Symbols and colors of Armenian Rugs
What makes Armenian rugs special and interesting is their color matching and the weave of the national ornaments. Each ornament has its meaning and significance. The natural dyes and the type of wool used in rug weaving were also of much importance.
One of the most widespread types of Armenian rugs is “Vishapagorg” (a rug of a dragon). Vishapagorgs usually had ornaments of dragons (a symbol of power), the tree of life, phoenixes, and symbols of eternity. Every region of Armenia had its style of rug weaving with unique decorations and ornaments. Usually, the rugs had the date and the weaver’s name on them.
Rugs were the main decoration of any house. Armenians used them to cover the floor, walls, sofas, and tables. Even in the 21st century, you can still find rural houses decorated with traditional rugs.
Here is the rug-making process:
These were only minutes. The rug-making process is very long and hard. However, the final result is worth the wasted time and effort.
