Art Deco Rugs For The Common Man

Art Deco rugs were first introduced to the world at the LExposition Internationale des Arts Decoratifs et Industriels Modernes or the Worlds Fair Exhibition of Modern and Industrial Decorative Art, which was held in Paris, in the year 1925, right after the first World War. The interiors of the exhibition space were decorated by these rugs and, the organizers must have done something right, because these rugs took the world by storm after that.

Origins

These elegant rugs led to the formation of a huge market for machine made rugs all over the world and craftsmen, designers and weavers from all over the world rushed into a frenzy to create the perfect masterpiece. These rugs were so in demand, because, unlike oriental rugs, these rugs were not so expensive.

In fact, they were quite affordable to the common man. Thus a large market was created because every middle class man rushed to decorate his home with a rug which resembled the oriental rugs, but came for a much cheaper price.

These rugs inspired rug manufacturers in both Europe and America to create rugs which had a range of modern and bold designs. This brought about a sea change in interior decoration and the styles of furnishing which took the world by storm in the early 20th century. In fact, decorative arts of this age, referred to as the Machine Age has a streamlined appearance.

Characteristics

So what are the points of difference between Oriental rugs and Deco rugs?

Oriental rugs are thin, but, on the other hand, Deco rugs are thick and comfy. Its an absolute pleasure to step on them!
These rugs are known for the bold and bright colours which are contained in them. Bright greens, reds and yellow are all at home on these rugs.
These rugs are fabricated from a combination of wool and silk so they bring luxury to affordable levels and within reach of common man.
These rugs have repeating patterns like lines and squares. Modern, geometrical designs are often seen on them.
These rugs suit all palates if you want a modern, minimalist and subdued look, art deco rugs are also available which espouse these qualities.

During the Great Depression, in 1929, there was a temporary fall in the production of these rugs. The genuine rugs from this age are quite rare and expensive these days, but one can also find rugs which are inspired by the originals, they come at a much more affordable price.

Art deco rugs are special because they changed the entire concept of rugs being a luxury item, which could only be afforded by the very rich. Common man could also decorate his home according to his tastes with their advent. For this reason alone, one should buy a deco rug, to contribute, in their own small way, to the coming of age of the common man.