French Rugs

Did you know that my Mother was an Interior Designer? I think the thing that impressed me the most is that she could please a client who had the total opposite taste. After all, anyone could help you decorate who has the same likes and dislikes as you. She inspired me.

With that I want to share what I learned about antique French rugs.

Old, even gently warn rugs, give a room instant Old World charm. In Europe, rugs are passed down from one generation to the next and just get better and better as they are used.

AUBUSSON RUG
Aubussons are flat-weave wool tapestry rugs with a central medallion and floral motifs in muted pastel colors, originally made in France in a town of the same name, from the 16th to the 19th century.



SAVONNERIE RUG
Savonnerie are woven rugs but have a thicker pile than Aubusson carpets do. They were made in Paris starting in 1628. Designs created by court artists included floral arrangements, military and beraldic references, and architectural motifs. This one takes my breath away!


Authentic Savonneries are much more rare than Aubussons because they were made exclusively for the French Court and can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. At the time of production, Aubussons were considered the "poor man's rug," although today they can cost well into the high tens of thousands of dollars.