The Top 10 Most Expensive Area Rugs Ever Sold

Last updated on August 9th, 2023 at 02:32 pm

Looking for a way to make a statement in your home decor? Nothing speaks luxury quite like an expensive area rug. From hand-woven silk to intricate designs, the most expensive area rugs are true works of art that can elevate any space.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the world of luxury area rugs and explore the top 10 most expensive area rugs and carpets ever sold. So, get ready to indulge in some serious rug envy!

Table of Contents

Who Makes the Most Luxurious Rugs?

Some of the world’s most luxurious rugs are made by hand in countries like Iran, India, and Turkey. These rugs are often crafted using traditional techniques that have been passed down for generations, making each rug a unique and valuable piece of art.

handmade expensive rugs india turkey — *Handmade crafting of rugs in Turkey and India; Google Images caption*

One of the most renowned rug-making regions in the world is the city of Kashan in Iran. The rugs produced in Kashan are known for their intricate designs and high-quality craftsmanship.

Another notable region is Agra in India, where some of the world’s most beautiful silk rugs are made.

What Type of Rugs Are the Most Expensive?

When it comes to expensive area rugs, there are a few types that tend to stand out. Silk rugs are among the most expensive, thanks to their luxurious feel and intricate designs.

Other materials that can drive up the cost of a rug include wool, cashmere, and mohair.

Another factor that can make a rug more expensive is the intricacy of the design. Rugs with complex designs and patterns often require more time and skill to make, driving up the price.

The Most Expensive Rug Ever Sold

Sotheby’s 17th century antique Persian carpet

Which Persian rug sold for $33.76 million?

A very intriguing question, isn’t it? But it reveals the incredible real case of the most expensive area rug ever sold.

Earlier we have already revealed the story behind the most expensive carpet – the Pearl Carpet of Baroda for almost $5.5 Million.

And the most expensive area rug ever sold is the Clark Sickle-Leaf carpet, which was sold at a Sotheby’s auction in 2013 for a staggering $33.7 million. The rug, which dates back to the 17th century, is one of the oldest surviving Persian carpets in the world.

Sotheby's 17th century antique Persian carpet — *Sotheby’s 17th-century antique Persian carpet; wikimedia.org*

The Clark Sickle-Leaf carpet features an intricate design of curved leaves and flowers, woven in shades of red, blue, and green. It is considered a masterpiece of Persian weaving, and its sale set a new record for the most expensive rug ever sold.

The Top 10 Most Expensive Area Rugs and Carpets Ever Sold

Now that we’ve covered the most expensive rug ever sold, let’s take a closer look at the top 10 most expensive area rugs and carpets ever sold. Or in other words, what rugs are worth a lot of money?

Here they are, in order of price:

#1 The Clark Sickle-Leaf rug – $33.7 million

#2 The Kirman ‘vase’ carpet – $7.7 million

The 17th-century South-East Persia rug was sold at Christie’s auction in 2010.

#3 The Imperial “Dragon” carpet – $7.6 million

The 16th-century Imperial “Dragon” carpet for the throne pedestal. Probably the Chinese Ming dynasty. Sold at Christie’s auction in 2021.

#4 The Imperial Mughal Pashmina carpet – $6.77 million

The 17th-century Imperial Mughal Pashmina carpet. Sold at Christie’s auction in 2022.

#5 The Mughal Millefleurs “Star-Lattice” carpet – $5.95 million

The Mughal Millefleurs of about 17-18th century carpet from North India. Sold at Christie’s auction in 2013.

*Mughal Millefleurs carpet; Image caption from Christie’s site*

#6 The Pearl Carpet of Baroda – $5.5 million

#7 The Polonaise carpet – $4.84 million

The 17th-century Polonaise carpet from Central Persia. Sold at Christie’s auction in 2019.

#8 The Polonaise carpet – $4.6 million

One more Polonaise carpet from Central Persia, 17th-century. Sold at Christie’s auction in 2019.

#9 The Isfahan rug – $4.45 million

The 16th-century Isfahan rug was sold at Christie’s auction in 2008.

#10 The Louis XV Savonnerie carpet – $4.4 million

The Louis XV Savonnerie carpet of about 17th century after the design by Pierre-Josse Perrot. Sold at Christie’s auction in 2000.

What Makes These Area Rugs So Expensive?

There are a few factors that can make an area rug expensive.

First, the materials used to make the rug can significantly impact its price. High-quality materials like silk, wool, and cashmere are often more expensive than synthetic materials.

The complexity of the design can also impact the price of a rug. Intricate designs often require more time and skill to create, driving up the cost.

Finally, the age and rarity of the rug can also impact its price, as older rugs or those with unique designs may be considered collector’s items.

Some of the most expensive area rugs ever sold have been made with luxurious materials like silk, gold, and even diamonds. These rugs can take years to create, with master weavers hand-knotting each individual thread to create intricate patterns and designs.

Are There Any Historical or Cultural Significance to the Designs of These Expensive Area Rugs?

Yes, many expensive area rugs have significant cultural and historical significance. For example, Persian rugs are known for their intricate designs and have been a symbol of status and wealth for centuries. These rugs were often given as gifts to royalty and have been prized possessions in many wealthy households.

In addition to Persian rugs, Tibetan and Chinese rugs also have a rich cultural heritage. Tibetan rugs, in particular, are known for their intricate designs and are often created using ancient techniques that have been passed down for generations.

What Are the Recommended Cheaper Alternatives to These Expensive Area Rugs?

While expensive area rugs can be luxurious and beautiful, they are not always practical for everyone’s budget. There are several cheaper alternatives to these expensive area rugs that can still add style and elegance to your home.

One option is to look for machine-made rugs that mimic the look and feel of hand-woven rugs. These rugs are often made with synthetic materials but can still be very durable and long-lasting.

Another option is to look for vintage or second-hand rugs, which can often be found at a fraction of the cost of new rugs.

How Do These Expensive Area Rugs Compare to Other Area Rugs in Terms of Quality and Durability?

Expensive area rugs are often made with high-quality materials and are crafted with great care and attention to detail. These rugs are designed to last for years and are often considered a long-term investment for your home.

However, there are many less expensive area rugs that can also be high quality and durable. It’s important to consider factors like material, weave, and construction when choosing an area rug to ensure that you are getting a rug that will last.

In conclusion, expensive area rugs can be a luxurious addition to any home, but they are not always practical or affordable for everyone.

It’s important to consider factors like material, design, and cultural significance when choosing an area rug, and to remember that there are many affordable alternatives available that can still add style and elegance to your home.

FAQs about the Most Expensive Area Rugs

What are most expensive rugs made of?

Most expensive rugs are made of high-quality natural materials such as silk, wool, and cashmere. These materials are durable, soft, and luxurious, which makes them more expensive than synthetic materials.

Where do the most expensive rugs come from?

The most expensive rugs can come from all over the world, but some of the most well-known and luxurious rug-making regions are Persia (Iran), India, Turkey, and China. Each of these regions has a unique style and tradition of rug-making that contributes to the beauty and value of their rugs.