What is an Art Silk Rug?
Art silk rugs are hand-knotted rugs whose pile consists of artificially produced, primarily synthetic or plant-based fibres such as viscose, bamboo silk, or rayon. The foundation—warp and weft—is typically made from durable cotton. Art silk rugs are most commonly produced in India or China. These fibres successfully imitate the sheen, softness, and light refraction of genuine natural silk, but are easier to care for, more affordable, and free of animal products. Art silk rugs offer an authentic silk rug appearance, an appealingly velvety touch, and are ideal for contemporary interiors that require everyday elegance or animal-free alternatives to real silk.
Origin, Features & Design of Art Silk Rugs
- Provenance: Hand-knotted in various ateliers in China and India, especially in regions with a rich textile heritage.
- Materials: Warp and weft are hard-wearing cotton; the pile is made from high-quality silk-like materials such as viscose, art silk, span silk or bamboo silk—recreating the natural silk lustre and providing an especially smooth, fine feel.
- Knotting Technique: Depending on quality, knot density ranges from 200,000 up to over 900,000 knots/m², enabling intricate patterns; these rugs are, however, somewhat less durable than genuine silk rugs.
- Designs: A wide range of patterns from florals, medallions, and borders to modern looks—inspired by Persian, Turkish, as well as traditional Chinese or Indian motifs.
- Colours: Bright, vibrant colour choices with a broad lustrous spectrum: from ivory, gold and blue to rich red, green and pastels.
- Sizes: Available in numerous formats—from small décor pieces and runners to large, room-defining carpets.
Art Silk Rugs at a Glance
| Provenance / Type | Main Pile Material | Knot Density | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art Qom Rugs | Art silk, span silk or viscose | 200,000–900,000 knots/m² | Floral field & tableau patterns, pastels combined with bright tones, modern Qom designs, hand-knotted originals, mid price range |
| Art Hereke Rugs | Art silk, span silk or viscose | 200,000–900,000 knots/m² | Allover, medallion & field motifs, pastels combined with vivid colours, modern Hereke designs, hand-knotted originals, mid price range |
| Art Nain Rugs | Art silk, span silk or viscose | 200,000–900,000 knots/m² | Floral medallion & allover designs, pastels with vivid accents, modern Nain styles, more affordable than Persian Qom, hand-knotted originals, mid price range |
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Art Silk Rugs
What is the difference between natural silk and art silk?
Art silk is made from plant-based or synthetic fibres, is less expensive, more durable, and animal-free, whereas natural silk comes from silkworm cocoons. Real silk is unmatched for lustre, softness, and tensile strength, but is more sensitive to sunlight and moisture. Art silk closely imitates the look and feel of natural silk, though its value, durability and material quality is somewhat lower.
Do art silk rugs really shine like silk?
Modern art silk can closely reproduce the luminous sheen of real silk—both visually and by touch. With high-quality fibre and craftsmanship, art silk rugs can resemble their natural silk counterparts to a remarkable degree in gloss and refinement.
Are art silk rugs easy to care for?
Yes, they are less sensitive than natural silk, but should—like all Oriental rugs—be gently cleaned, kept dry, and regularly maintained by a professional. Discover more about carpet care.
Are there special considerations or limitations with art silk rugs?
Art silk rugs are more affordable and practical for day-to-day use than genuine silk rugs, but they cannot quite match real silk in lasting value, extreme longevity, or unique luster. However, their animal-free character and ease of care make them an especially attractive choice for modern, high-traffic interiors.
Do I receive a certificate of authenticity with every art silk rug?
Yes—at JUPITER Intl, every hand-knotted original is supplied with a certificate declaring provenance and material. Find out more about our certificate of authenticity.
Quality, Price & Service by JUPITER Intl
- All our art silk rugs are hand-knotted originals, carefully chosen for craftsmanship, material and design
- Transparent provenance: every handmade rug comes with a certificate of authenticity
- Fair prices directly from Khademi—no middlemen or misleading “retail prices”
- Wide spectrum: from exclusive Qom silk rugs and luxury Nain Persians to modern Ziegler Orientals, handwoven kilims, and quality machine-made rugs
- Personal advice on provenance, size, materials and style
- Secure payment, 31-day return policy and free returns for your complete satisfaction
Personal Consultation at JUPITER Intl
Looking for the perfect art silk rug, a certain provenance, format or special design? Our experienced team is happy to support you—from expert style advice to sourcing unique pieces. Contact us by phone or email, or combine your visit with a trip to our showroom in Hamburg’s UNESCO World Heritage Speicherstadt—experience history and tradition up close!
More Information & Links
- Design Classic: Qom Rugs
- Design Classic: Hereke Rugs
- Design Classic: Nain Rugs
- Countries of Origin: China – Expression of a Rich Culture
- Countries of Origin: India – Color, Diversity and Tradition
- Carpet Guide: How Do I Properly Care for Hand-Knotted Rugs?
- Carpet Guide: What to Consider When Choosing Rug Size
- Carpet Guide: How to Identify Hand-Knotted Rugs
- Carpet Guide: How to Calculate the Knot Density of a Rug
- Carpet Guide: What’s the Difference Between Rug Knot Types?
- Carpet Guide: How Sustainable Are Hand-Knotted Rugs?
- Carpet Guide: Are Hand-Knotted Rugs a Good Investment?
- Certificate of Authenticity: Your Guarantee for Quality and Authenticity
