Aubusson Rugs |
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The Aubusson rug takes its name from the French town of Aubusson, a small,
picturesque town situated close to the mountains of the Massif Central and lying
on the banks of the River Creuse. Although this medieval town ceased to produce
rugs over 130 years ago, it was at one time the very centre of Europe’s rug
manufacturing industry. There was, and still is, an organized industry but
no factory; for Aubusson is a center of individual weavers all adhering to a
strict form or style of weaving, construction. Carpets made in this manner have
no pile and are woven with a traditional thick-thread tapestry weave on looms.
The town continues to host a number of tapestry and rug exhibitions each
summer.
Aubusson rugs are widely regarded as one of the most significant designs to come
out of Europe along with the French Savonnerie style,
also dating back to the 1600’s and 1700’s. Indeed, these carpets and tapestries are so popular that
they continue to be reproduced in India and Asia. The Savonnerie carpets of this
era were only available to the King who very rarely shared his supplies with
others. The demand for similar designs led to the development of the Aubusson
rug trade, and for well over two hundred years these designs could be found in
the very best houses right across Europe
These rugs often have floral designs with architectural elements and beautiful
soft colors. An Aubusson rug is delicate and best used in a room that is not
heavily trafficked. It has a very French and formal look to it.