Swedish Flat Weave Wool Carpet

Vintage Finnish flat weave ‘Harmaa Linna’ or ‘Hilkka’, designed by Greta Skogster-Lehtinen. Finland, ca: 1930's.

Scandinavian carpets (from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Finland) have a history as intricate as their designs. Due to trade, Scandinavia had significant contact with Anatolia (Turkey) and Asia Minor during the Middle Ages. Between the 8thand 12th centuries, Byzantine rugs were hung on walls in wealthier homes to help insulate them against brutal winter cold; however, by the 14th century the influence of rugs from the Orient began to be evident. Scandinavians developed Riya, or long-hair rugs, which were then used to replace the Oriental ones. They were even used as blankets and cloaks, as well as for marriage ceremonies, with elaborate details about the wedding included in the design. From the 1500 through the 1800 centuries, the Tree of Life motif became prominent as a symbol of family trees. In the late 19th century, a new style, called Rollakan, developed. Unlike the abstract, thick-piled Riyas, they were flat weaves with elaborate tapestry patterns. Riyas were popular with modernist architects in the mid-20th century, using these rugs to provide a mood of warmth to a generally minimalist style.

We are always happy to collaborate with you on a custom carpet that meets all your specifications...and your wildest dreams! Of course, it will be woven on our very own looms with the best materials under the supervision of our experts.

Design: Swedish Flat Weave Wool Carpet
Style: Mid Century Swedish Flat Weave Carpet
Origin: Sweden
Material: 100% Wool
Colors: Ivory, Lavender, Brown, Blue, Coral, Ivory, Yellow, Pink
Size: 9' X 11'5"
Rug Number: 70002435

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Modern Scandinavian rugs have a rich history that dates back to the 12th century, with the Vikings traveling the Scandinavian Peninsula and Northern Europe. Especially during the colder months, their frigid temperatures led to the birth of rug making among the Scandinavian people. Having developed their own style of flat-woven tapestry rug called “rollakan,” which were also commonly used as coverlets, from the common kilim rugs, they drew their inspiration from the Eastern pile rugs, and developed the most recognizable Swedish rug, the Swedish Rya Rug, which are knotted long-pile rugs that are made with a special linen backing, woven with material through which woolen yarn can be knotted, creating a thick pile shaggy rug.

Both Rollakans and Ryas were originally made from natural fibers, such as undyed sheep’s wool, so the earliest Swedish wool rugs contained only earthy colors such as brown, tan, white, and black. Although weavers would sometimes incorporate decorative patterns, the early rugs were mainly utilitarian, so solid colors were the most common. Because sheep’s wool is naturally insulating and water-resistant, these carpets were perfect for seafaring people who would use them as protective cloaks and blankets.

Eventually, Swedish carpets began to offer much more decorative versions that included a variety of colors and intricate designs incorporating simple geometric patterns and artful motifs based on regional folklore. Aside from becoming an important part of the Swedish Wedding Ceremony, Scandinavian rugs were widely known as a status symbol, and no home was complete without one of these historic textile pieces of art.

As time passed, Swedish rug weavers began mixing traditional rug-making techniques with new designs, carrying this exquisite art form into the 20th century. Today, with their complex and colorful tapestries and knotted rugs gaining attention from across the globe, handmade rugs from Sweden are highly prized among the interior design community, as they have become international art objects recognized for their trend-setting style with shaggy carpets, bold works of art and happy colorful rugs that epitomize modern, mid-century designs. Known for incorporating modernist motifs and designs which naturally go perfectly in any modern or art deco setting, the demand for Swedish carpets will only increase over the next few years.

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Art Deco Carpets showcase what the mid 20th century was largely defined by – the experimentation and innovation in the arts, industries, the sciences and popular culture. An Art Deco area rug was produced between the 1920’s and 1970’s. These carpets explore the boundaries, and push the limits, of textural and visual style, creating designs that provide a strong sensory experience and can quickly change the look and feel of your interior home design.

Over the past several years, there has been a substantial increase in the popularity of certain types of Art Deco rugs. In the 21st century, the world has seen a renewed interest in vintage rugs. This has created a surging demand for authentic mid 20th century works of art. And, while modernized productions continue to be produced, despite its “vintage” design, it is not, by definition, truly vintage. Art Deco rug styles are exciting and dynamic examples of the various artistic developments of the mid 20th century, and each have their own story to tell.

These marvelous carpets feature formal geometric motifs, whimsical folk-art influences and colorful Art Deco inspired designs, including abstract, pop-art, and minimalist styles. Whether collectors and designers are seeking a luxurious long-pile Rya, or charming flat-woven vintage rugs from Scandinavia, the most versatile and colorful rugs make superb statement pieces that will bring life to any living space. These carpets seemingly blend well with the ever changing interior decor trends of our time.

In recent years, art deco carpets and rugs such as Moroccan rugs and Scandinavian rugs have swelled in popularity for a wide variety of interiors. Most notably, a mid-century modern decor benefits best from these artistic masterpieces. They can draw a room together, transforming it from sparse and minimal, to cozy, inviting, and luxurious, without breaking the bank. Their popularity comes from their ease of use and the wide range of color palette options, not to mention their uniqueness in design. Indeed, the fact that these Art Deco rugs are as desirable as they are is a testament to two things: first, to the incredible craftsmanship that went into the original composition; and, second, to their enduring beauty.

Here at Richard Afkari Rugs, our eclectic, comprehensive selection of Art Deco carpets include the most popular, and the most sought after, vintage carpet and rug styles, including extraordinary pieces from Morocco, dynamic pieces from Scandinavia, and stunning Art Deco compositions from Europe and Asia. Our collection is sure to delight anyone with an expressed interest in all things “vintage.” There is no limit to the variety of aesthetic values that one can find among Art Deco rug styles, and with our very knowledgeable staff, we are determined to help you find the perfect rug to fit your space, and create a lasting impression for years to come. Browse our extensive collection of Art Deco carpets, and discover the exciting world of vintage design!