OUR COLLECTION
How MadameOttoman Collects Your Vintage Rugs
Village Life
Rugs and kilims, originally created in Central Asia for insulation, gradually became cultural symbols. Ottoman culture played a key role in their revival, particularly in rural areas where weaving traditions thrived. Women wove these pieces before marriage, using intricate motifs to express their desires, prepare rugs for their new homes, create a source of income, or showcase a sense of luxury.
The Cornerstones of Culture
Over time, women saw rug weaving as a valuable source of income, benefiting both themselves and cultural heritage. To meet their needs and express emotions, they wove millions of rugs over centuries. Passing down traditions and techniques through generations, they paved the way for transforming this cultural craft into an industry, preserving its essence while achieving remarkable milestones and leaving a lasting legacy.
Awarness
As rug weaving became an industry, governments, businesses, and villages sought to profit from its immense value, leading to a race to produce millions of rugs over the past century. Despite claims of superior quality and design, no factory could match the heartfelt artistry of a village woman weaving her emotions and stories into her rugs, proving that rug weaving is both an industry and an art form.
Aged, Not Worn Out
After the 1970s, the products of the rug weaving competition started to fall out of favor and were no longer used. Many of these rugs had been either forgotten or kept in poor conditions. However, the rugs made by village women, through their hard work and experience, aged beautifully. They had more vibrant wool, a silkier texture, and certainly more unique designs. These pieces, quietly saying "Ours are the best," remained in excellent condition and did not succumb to the test of time.
Restoration
Handwoven rugs, once considered mere old items, have now turned into prized antiques, birthing two vital crafts: repair and washing. Rug repair, though newer than weaving, is crucial for preserving village rugs, demanding as much skill and raising the question: "Does reviving old artistry require new artistry?" Rug washing, an ancient craft, has grown intricate as rugs must maintain their antique charm. This complexity has led many businesses to close, making expert rug washing a rare and valued profession.
Collection
At MadameOttoman, we bring this rich culture to your doorstep. We travel to Middle Eastern villages to collect rugs that embody deep emotions and identities, not just competition. Our expert team restores and cleans these rugs, making them ready for your home. More than just a rug seller, we are here to address all your rug-related needs. As stewards of this heritage, we proudly serve you, the new owners.
In the journey to join the MadameOttoman collection, a handwoven rug embarks on a six-month voyage. We traverse distant villages, gathering each treasured piece, tenderly restoring its former glory, and cleansing it with care. As the final touch, we weave in the essence of MadameOttoman, bestowing upon it a mark of timeless elegance and value.