 Weaving
Indo-Tibetan traditional rugs has existed for thousands of years.
Political and religious exiles fled their ancient mountain kingdom in
1959, when a Chinese military uprising forced a mass exodus. They
settled in areas below the Himalayas, like India and Pakistan, where
they reside until this day. Most Indo-Tibetan traditional rug weaving
takes place in this region although there are excellent weaving centers
in Katmandu, Patan, and Pokhara. The best rugs are still made in the
time honored fashion of traditional rug weaving with totally handspun
Tibetan yarn and vegetable dyes, and hand woven using the unique
Tibetan asymmetrical knot - a double looped knot called the sennah that
originated on Himalayan plateaus. Indo Tibetan traditional rug weaving
is totally unique in structure and design, largely influenced by the
Tibetan tribal culture and to a lesser degree by Buddhism and Chinese
culture.
Indo-Tibetan
rugs are well known for its lush geometric designs. Checkerboard rugs
and back strap loom rugs called tsuktruk weavings became popular in the
United States around 1990. Abstract, floral, garden, pictorial, plain,
and classic animal print designs are also in high demand. The color
palette on Indo-Tibetan rugs runs the gamut from neutral to
extraordinarily brilliant. You will see everything from beiges and
creams to oranges, reds, turquoise, and purples.
The foundation of an Indo-Tibetan rugs is hand spun cotton, while the
pile is wool or a combination of wool and silk. These durable rugs are
very thick and dense with deep pile and fabulous colors. Most of the
rugs produced are small in size, although large ones are occasionally
available. The simple geometric designs of Indo-Tibetan rugs lends
itself to modern and contemporary décor, but they are so versatile that
they can be used as floor coverings, runners, throws, and wall hangings
in any home.
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