Rug Cleaning Blymhill

Afghan Ziegler rugs, also known as Chobi or Zeigler rugs, originate from Afghanistan and draw inspiration from 19th-century Persian rug designs, particularly those commissioned by the Anglo-Swiss firm Ziegler & Co. in the 1880s. The company, based in Manchester, UK, set up operations in Persia (modern-day Iran) to produce rugs tailored to Western tastes, softening traditional Persian patterns with muted, earthy colour palettes like creams, beiges, and soft reds. These designs were less intricate than classical Persian rugs, appealing to European and American markets.

In Afghanistan, artisans adopted and adapted these Ziegler designs, creating hand-knotted rugs using high-quality wool, often dyed with natural, vegetable-based dyes. Afghan Ziegler rugs are known for their durability, intricate yet understated patterns, and a slightly distressed, antique-like finish, achieved through techniques like stone-washing. The designs typically feature floral motifs, geometric patterns, or open fields with subtle borders, reflecting a blend of Persian heritage and Western aesthetic preferences.