Kashmir rugs: the history of beauty

Kashmir rugs: the history of beauty

Kashmir rugs are famous all over the world for their quality and style. These rugs are hand-knotted oriental rugs made by artisans from the Kashmir Valley. They are available in a variety of styles, colors, designs and sizes. The history of Indian carpets is about 1500 years old but it is not known exactly where and by whom the first carpet was made. However, carpet knotting was first introduced in Kashmir in the late 15th century by King Badshah who brought artisans from Persia to train the Kashmiri people to knot carpets.

Kashmir rugs are made in Srinagar , Jammu, Kashmir in northern India and Kashmir’s rural neighbors. The carpets known as Jammu carpet and Srinagar carpet are both considered Kashmir as they are knotted in the same style and area. In Kashmir rugs, the making knot known as senneh or asymmetrical knot is originally used.

Usually, Kashmiri rugs are knotted in standard sizes with wool, silk and cotton. The Kashmir silk on silk carpet is one of the most precious Indian carpets known all over the world. Kashmiri rugs have motifs inspired by Persian rugs such as Hamadan , Ardabil , Kerman , Kashan , etc. Also, some popular motifs are Gulabdar (roses), Lotus , Bagdar (gardens), All-over , Tree of life and Gumm (labyrinth motif). Kashmiri carpet colors are usually classic colors inspired by Kashmiri culture.