Prayer Rugs - small Persian rugs of directional design

Prayer rugs generally refer to small rugs used by the Islamic world to kneel upon while praying. The term can also be used to describe a general design. Prayer rugs have been used by Muslims for centuries and are an integral part of the religion. Orthodox Muslims are expected to pray on a clean spot 5 times per day, facing the city of Mecca. This is the reason for the directional design as they point toward the holy city. These Persian prayer rugs are so named for Persia, now known as Iran.

They are characterized by an arch-shaped element at the end of the rug, pointing in one direction. This arch at the ends of prayer rugs is called a mihrab. It represents the mihrab set in the wall of the mosque and symbolizes the gateway to paradise. The mihrab may be either angular and geometric or curvilinear, consisting of floral motifs of more intricate design.

Although Persian prayer rugs are a popular item of commerce, and are made in many designs and materials, only a small number have been used by the faithful for the purpose of prayer. They are however, used as such in mosques where they have been given as tokens of reverence and thanksgiving.

The field of these prayer rugs may be empty or filled with designs common to the area where it is woven. In some places the mihrab is supported by columns. The sides of the prayer arch are decorated in a variety of patterns, depending on the weaving center.

Prayer rugs are woven in Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan, the Caucasus and Turkestan. Copies of traditional Persian prayer rugs are woven in Pakistan, China, India and Romania. Variations on the theme of prayer rugs are Turkey's biggest contribution to weaving, and the earliest surviving examples date to the 16th century. These examples are assigned to sixteenth-century Ushak.

These small Persian prayer rugs provide excellent color and design for traditional homes as well as those with a contemporary look.

Recommended Merchants :: Prayer Rugs

Rugman.com: Beautiful handmade Oriental rugs and Persian rugs at or below wholesale prices.

Rugarea.com: Traditional Kashans by Noonoo, Kashimars from Couristan, and 19th century design Mahals are in this tremendous collection of Persian rugs.

To select from a variety of related products and services, choose from the following styles of quality area rugs:

About The Author:

Shirley Sims is a successful author and publisher of http://www.1st-area-rugs.net. An informational source, buyers guide and review of the best styles from leading manufacturers including prayer rugs.