We stock a selection of traditional Wangden rugs, a unique handmade Tibetan rug produced in only a few villages in central Tibet.
Wangden rugs have a different construction to regular Tibetan carpet (drumtse). They are thicker, with a low knot-count, and they are often finished with a shaggy fringe on four sides. The main customers before 1950 were the Tibetan monasteries. Monks sitting cross legged and taking part in lengthy ceremonies appreciated these carpets for their warmth and comfort, especially in sub-zero Tibetan winters.
Many of the traditional designs and colors of these carpets are the result of monastic preferences: rugs with the crossed dorje for example were exclusively used by the monasteries. Rugs with secular designs such as medallion designs were found both in monasteries and ordinary homes.
These days few Tibetan monasteries are ordering Wangden rugs, so finding new markets for these unique rugs has become a priority.
Photo: Norgye, one of the oldest weavers of Wangden carpets, and his home-made loom
