ISHKAR x Louis Barthélemy
A collection of hand-knotted wool rugs designed by Louis Barthélemy - joyful imaginaries, inspired by gardens of paradise and co-created with female weavers in Afghanistan.
Craftsmanship
Our rugs are expertly handmade in Afghanistan by talented weavers and artisans using only the finest materials. Read here for more information about the Afghan production process and the extraordinary qualities of Ghazni wool that makes our rugs so special.
Not sure what size to order?
We've put together a comprehensive size guide to help you understand some of the physical and illusory techniques used when calculating the perfect dimensions to fit your space and budget.
Is a hand-knotted rug right for you?
Hand-knotted rugs have a dense pile and exceptional longevity. They are often chosen for living rooms, bedrooms and spaces where comfort underfoot is important. With proper care, a hand-knotted rug can last for generations.
Read our Afghan Rug Guide to find out more.
Need help?
Frequently Asked Questions
A hand-knotted rug is a carpet woven entirely by hand, with each individual knot tied by a skilled artisan. Unlike machine-made rugs, the process is slow and highly labour-intensive, often taking a team of weavers several months to complete a single piece.
The density of the knots creates a soft pile and allows for intricate designs, while the quality of the materials ensures each rug develops a unique patina over time. Every hand-knotted rug is therefore not only a functional object, but also a testament to the skill of the artisans who made it.
Yes, we ship all over the world. Shipping costs will apply, and will be added at checkout. We run discounts and promotions all year, so stay tuned for exclusive deals.
Rugs may take anywhere between 1 to 6 months depending on the construction, dimensions, number of colours, and the season. Production can often take longer during wetter seasons.
Hand-knotted rugs-these can take anywhere between 4-6 months to produce. The larger and more complex the design, the longer the lead time.
For all products, we will be able to provide a more specific lead time once the order has been finalised, and will update you with progress along the way.
Yes! We offer customisation of size and colour on almost all of our rugs, allowing you to find the perfect solution for your room or scheme.
We also offer a fully bespoke design service. Find out more here.
Made in Afghanistan from 100% Ghazni wool, our rugs are hardwearing, with Afghan rugs known to last many centuries. Until then, we have a few tips on how to keep your rugs looking good as new:
- Vacuum lightly.
- Keep out of direct and prolonged sunlight.
- If a stain occurs, don't panic, but do act quickly to prevent it from drying.
Stains on hand-knotted rugs:
- Liquids: use paper towels to absorb. Work gently from the edges toward the centre, so the problem area does not expand.
- Wine, coffee/tea: absorb as quickly as possible, then apply a solution of warm water, detergent and white vinegar with a damp sponge. Wipe with a clean cloth and let dry.
- Professional dry-cleaning is always the best option for dealing with stubborn or dried stains.
A rug underlay is not always necessary, however we strongly recommend using one if your rug is in a high-traffic area and is susceptible to moving around.
You may also wish to buy an underlay to improve the comfort and longevity of your rug. A rug underlay will add cushioning underfoot, making your rug more comfortable to walk on and helping to absorb the friction and wear.
For recommendations on which underlay to source, please reach out for advice on contact@ishkar.com.
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