The Tibetan Rug
Since the first mention in written history of the warrior horsemen of Tibet, life on the Himalayan plateau has continued as it was for centuries. Rugs developed as a domestic craft - they were necessary and easily portable equipment. Horseman rode on wooden saddles cushioned by rugs. Families went on pilgrimages taking their rugs as sleeping mats. Week-long picnics were organized and rugs laid around colorfully embroidered tents to serve as furniture. In their monasteries, lamas and monks sat upon rugs in rows during meditation and prayer. Used by aristocrat and commoner alike, rugs were cushion, sleeping mat, insulation against winter drafts and decoration.
Today the Tibetan rug craft not only survives, but thrives in displaced Tibetan communities - especially within those living in Nepal. Still woven are rugs whose designs and symbols date far back into their cultural history. Although most of the production today has now been suited to modern markets and has been subjected to western cultural influences.
Tibetan rugs are cherished by lovers of the beautiful, their colors warm the spirit and designs speak to the universal yearning for truth and beauty. One must own a Tibetan rug to fully realize its intricacies of design and know the pleasure of possessing a fine, totally handmade work of art.