Sweden is known for its beautiful and distinctive carpets with a long and rich history. But did you know that many of these rugs were inspired by the Armenian rugs imported to Sweden since the Middle Ages? In this article, we will look at the fascinating connection between Armenian and Swedish carpets and how they reflect both peoples’ cultural exchange and artistic creativity.
Armenian carpets: a legacy of craftsmanship and symbolism
Armenian carpets are among the oldest and most revered types of carpets in the world. They date back to ancient times when Armenia was a major center of civilization and culture in the Middle East.
Armenian carpets are characterized by intricate patterns, vibrant colors, and symbolic motifs that often depict religious, historical, or folkloric themes. Armenian carpets are also known for their high quality and durability, as they are made from fine wool, silk, or cotton and dyed with natural substances.
Armenian carpets were admired and sought after by many peoples and cultures, especially in Europe and Asia. They were traded along the Silk Road, a network of routes connecting East and West. They were also exported to the Ottoman Empire, which ruled Armenia for several centuries. Armenian carpets were especially popular among the Turkish sultans, who collected them as jewelry and displayed them in their palaces.
Swedish carpets: a mixture of tradition and innovation
Sweden has a long tradition of carpet making, dating back to the Viking Age. Swedish rugs were originally used as bedspreads, tablecloths, or wall hangings and were woven by women at home. Swedish rugs were made from recycled textiles such as old clothes, rags, or scraps, which were cut into strips and woven together. This technique, known as reawaken or rya, creates colorful and unique rugs that are both practical and decorative.
Swedish rugs are influenced by various sources such as Scandinavian folklore, medieval art, and oriental rugs. The latter were especially important as they introduced new designs, technologies, and materials to Swedish carpet manufacturers. Swedish rugs began to incorporate motifs and themes from oriental rugs such as geometric shapes, floral patterns, animals, and stars. However, Swedish rug makers have also adapted these elements to their style and taste, creating original and distinctive rugs that reflect Swedish identity and culture.
Armenian-Swedish connection
One of the most interesting examples of Armenian influence on Swedish rugs is a Swedish cushion cover dating from 1762, which was designed and made by Armenian traders from Julfa, a city in Iran that was home to a large and prosperous Armenian community. The pillow cover is decorated with typically Armenian motifs such as the cross, tree of life, eagle, and dragon.
However, the cushion cover also has a Swedish touch as it uses the Rölakan technique and the Swedish colors of blue and yellow. The cushion cover is a rare and valuable item as it demonstrates the artistic collaboration and cultural exchange between the Armenian and Swedish peoples.
The Swedish pillow cover is not the only evidence of the Armenian-Swedish connection. There are many other examples of Swedish carpets with Armenian motifs such as the cross, star, medallion, and animal figurines. These carpets demonstrate the Swedish people’s admiration and appreciation for Armenian carpets and how they incorporated them into their artistic tradition.
Armenian and Swedish carpets are wonderful examples of the art and craft of carpet weaving, which has a long and rich history. They are also examples of how different cultures can influence and inspire each other, creating beautiful and unique works of art that reflect their identities and heritage.
Armenian and Swedish carpets are not only decorative objects but also means of expression and communication, as they tell the stories and values of their creators and owners. These are truly treasures of art and culture.
Artatsolum
Based on status: Arto Tavukciyan
Sources:
- Swedish carpets and rugs
- Handmade Armenian Rugs Collection | Tufenkian
- ARMENIAN RUGS SOCIETY – WELCOME
- Armenian Rugs – Etsy Armenia
- The Swedish Rug Company
- Rugs of Sweden – the original vintage Rag Rugs for sale
- The Swedish Rug Company
- Arto Tavukciyan
- Kilim | This is a Swedish cushion cover dated 1762, designed and produced I believe as a result of the Armenian Trade Network | Facebook
