Indian Carpets
Indian carpets often reflect the influence of Persian rugs yet they have
made a unique place for themselves by their exquisite patterns, attractive
colors and elegance. The typical knotted Persian carpet weaving reached
India during the 13th -14th century and was treated as a royal craft. The
craft flourished the most in Kashmir and parts of Uttar Pradesh. Knotted
carpets are either of silk or wool piled with cotton wefts generally. The
patterns can be traced to have a Persian origin and so do the color schemes.
By and large the Indian carpets color schemes are considered subtler than
their Persian or Turkish counterparts. Namda or the felt wool carpet making
flourished in Himachal Pradesh, Kashmir and Rajasthan and is known for
intricate chain stitch embroidery and applique work. Traditional Indian
carpets are called dhurries. They are the Indian counterparts of Turkish
kilims. They are flat weaves and may be woolen or cotton. Patterns vary with
the region and can be geometric, floral or traditional ikat patterns.
