Where is the most expensive carpet made? Origin & Cost Revealed

Last updated on May 1st, 2023 at 02:43 pm

If you’re wondering where the most expensive carpets in the world are made and what makes them so expensive, you’re in the right place. In this blog post, we’ll explore the fascinating world of luxury carpets, from their origins and manufacturing process to their value and care.

What Makes a Carpet Expensive?

The cost of a carpet depends on a variety of factors, including the materials used, the complexity of the design, the rarity of the design, and the expertise of the weavers.

For example, silk carpets are typically more expensive than wool carpets due to the higher cost of silk as a raw material.

Additionally, handmade carpets are usually more expensive than machine-made carpets, as they require more time and skill to create.

How is the Value of a Carpet Determined?

The value of a carpet is determined by several factors, including the quality of the materials used, the rarity of the design, and the condition of the carpet.

Age is also a factor; older carpets are often more valuable than newer carpets. Additionally, the provenance of a carpet can influence its value; a carpet with a rich history or association with a famous person or place may be more valuable than a similar carpet without such history.

How Are the Most Expensive Carpets Made?

The most expensive carpets in the world are typically handmade, using traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations.

The process involves tying knots by hand to create intricate designs and patterns. The weavers work on a loom, carefully following a design chart or diagram to ensure that each knot is tied in the right place. The process is time-consuming and requires a great deal of skill and patience.

hand made carpet manufacturing
Handmade manufacturing of carpets. Weavers working on the loom; Google Images caption

Where Are the Most Expensive Carpets Made?

Who makes the most expensive carpet and where? – the main question of this article.

The most expensive carpets in the world are made in a few select locations, including:

  • Iran
  • Turkey
  • India
  • China

These countries have a long history of carpet weaving, and their weavers are known for their skills and expertise.

Additionally, some of the most expensive carpets in the world are made by individual weavers or small groups of weavers who have honed their craft over many years.

Where Can I Buy the Most Expensive Carpets?

If you’re looking to buy one of the most expensive carpets in the world, you’ll need to go to a specialist dealer or auction house. Some of the most famous auction houses that sell high-end carpets include Sotheby’s, Christie’s, and Bonhams. Specialist dealers can also be found in carpet-producing countries like Iran and Turkey.

Also, nowadays, with high-developed worldwide market relations, you can find expensive carpets to buy even on the most popular marketplaces, such as Amazon or eBay.

For instance, here are the most expensive carpets selling on Amazon with a price range from $2000 to $10 000 and over:

most expensive carpets on amazon
The most expensive carpets on Amazon

And here are Persian carpets on eBay with a price range from $1700 to $5 000 and over:

most expensive carpets ebay
The most expensive carpets on ebay

What’s more, you can find a 130-year-old Oriental rug on eBay for $49,000.

most expensive carpets ebay-2

What is the History Behind the Creation of Expensive Carpets?

The history of carpet weaving goes back thousands of years, with evidence of carpet-making found in ancient civilizations like Persia and Egypt.

Carpets were originally created for practical purposes, such as providing insulation and protection from the cold. Over time, carpets became more decorative, and their designs became more complex and intricate.

Today, carpets are appreciated for both their beauty and their craftsmanship.

Are Expensive Carpets Considered Art?

Yes, expensive carpets are considered works of art by many people. They are often displayed in museums and galleries alongside other works of art.

Additionally, some of the most famous carpets in the world are owned by royalty and other wealthy individuals who consider them to be important works of art.

What is the Most Expensive Carpet Ever Made?

The world of expensive carpets is full of record-breaking prices and awe-inspiring designs. So what is the most expensive carpet ever made?

The answer lies in the intricate details of the Pearl Carpet of Baroda, which was created in India in the 18th century. This stunning piece features over 1.5 million natural seed pearls, as well as diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires, all set in a delicate floral pattern. The carpet measures over 8 feet by 5 feet and is considered a true masterpiece of craftsmanship.

Pearl Carpet of Baroda
Pearl Carpet of Baroda; Image caption from Sotheby’s site

The Pearl Carpet of Baroda was sold in an auction in 2009 for almost $5.5 million by an anonymous buyer making it the most expensive sold carpet in the world. Until it was overbeaten by the 17th-century South-East Persia Clark Sickle-Leaf carpet that was sold at Christie’s auction in 2010 for a stunned $33.76 million.

Nevertheless, the Pearl Carpet of Baroda deserves its title as the most expensive made carpet thanks to its exquisite pearl decoration. It is currently housed in the Qatar National Museum, where visitors can admire its beauty and marvel at the incredible skill that went into its creation.

Where Was the Pearl Carpet of Baroda Made?

The Pearl Carpet of Baroda was created in Baroda, India in the 18th century. The carpet was commissioned by the Maharaja of Baroda and was created by a team of skilled artisans over the course of several years.

The creation of the Pearl Carpet of Baroda involved a highly specialized process, which included the use of over 1.5 million natural seed pearls, as well as precious gemstones and gold thread. The carpet was created using a technique known as knotting, which involves tying individual knots around the warp and weft threads to create a pattern.

Pearl Carpet of Baroda
An enlarged piece of Pearl Carpet of Baroda; Google Image caption

Today, the Pearl Carpet of Baroda is considered one of the greatest masterpieces of Indian carpet weaving, and is revered for its intricate design and exquisite craftsmanship.

How Can I Take Care of an Expensive Carpet Once I Buy It?

Taking care of an expensive carpet requires some special attention. It’s important to keep the carpet clean and free from dirt and debris, as these can damage the fibers over time.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to rotate the carpet periodically to prevent wear and tear in any one area. Finally, it’s important to avoid placing the carpet in direct sunlight or in areas with high humidity or moisture, as this can cause discoloration or mold growth.

To keep an expensive carpet clean, regular vacuuming is key. However, it’s important to use a vacuum with a soft bristle brush and to avoid using high suction settings, which can damage the fibers.

Additionally, spot-cleaning spills and stains immediately can prevent them from setting in and causing permanent damage. For more thorough cleaning, it’s recommended to have the carpet professionally cleaned every 12-18 months.

FAQs about the Most Expensive Carpets

What are the Expensive Carpet Types?

Expensive carpets can come in a variety of types, including hand-knotted, hand-tufted, and machine-made. However, hand-knotted carpets are generally considered the most expensive due to the amount of time and skill required to create them.

What are the Expensive Carpet Brands?

There are several brands that are known for producing high-quality, expensive carpets, including Karastan, and Stark Carpet. Additionally, many luxury fashion brands also produce high-end carpets, such as Hermès and Louis Vuitton.

most expensive carpets hermes
One of the carpets in the Hermes store. Price: $44 700; Image caption from Hermes site

Leave a Comment