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Buying an Antique Rug: Condition and Authenticity

Collecting & ValuationDate Published
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Age, origin, structure, dyes, wear and repair all affect an antique rug. Attractive colour alone cannot establish date or place.

What to do

Examine front and back in good light. Check ends, sides, pile, foundation, reweaving, patches, fading, stains, moth activity and whether dimensions have been altered.

Before you commit

Ask for fibre and construction details, provenance and a clear restoration account. Avoid definitive regional attributions unsupported by weave and design knowledge.

Keep the record

Use a specialist rug dealer or conservator for important examples and obtain transport and display advice.

Trusted references

  • [BADA: Buying antiques](https://www.bada.org/advice/buying-and-selling-antiques/buying-antiques)
  • [CINOA: Code of Ethics and Charter](https://www.cinoa.org/about/code-of-ethics/)

This guide is general information, not legal, financial, insurance or valuation advice. Terms and consumer rights vary by location and sale method.

Continue learning

Watch practical examinations and restoration work on the [Antique Repair Shop YouTube channel](https://www.youtube.com/@AntiqueRepairShop).