French Aubusson Rugs

Aubusson StyleMany of the first Aubusson-style rugs were modifications of Oriental designs, such as Ushak. Soon though, antique French Aubusson rugs were heavily influenced by the renaissance and followed the stylistic evolution of Savonnerie carpets, but had simpler designs with subdued colors and the use of lush garden plants and garlands.Aubusson French carpets typically have a higher pile than Persian rugs, which allows for the creation of deeper carves and different design motifs.Often including a floral design, Aubusson tapestries and rugs utilize a variety of rich coloring, including pastel dyes, to create art that was and still is a central point of one’s home decor.Lasting InfluenceThe style of Aubusson carpets had an enormous influence on overseas production, and between the end of the 18th century and the mid-19th century, it became the model to imitate, even in the Orient and especially in Anatolia.(Other spelling: Aubuson)

What is an Aubusson rug?

Like many other rugs, Aubusson rugs take their name from the French town Aubusson, lying on the banks of the Creuse River. Aubusson established its reputation in the 18th century, becoming an early weaving center for rugs and tapestries. Most Aubusson carpets were flat-woven using the tapestry technique, which was quicker, easier, and cheaper to produce.

They followed the stylistic evolution of Savonnerie carpets but had simpler designs with subdued colors and the use of lush garden plants.

Aubusson Style

Many of the first Aubusson-style rugs were modifications of Oriental designs, such as Ushak. Soon though, antique French Aubusson rugs were heavily influenced by the renaissance and followed the stylistic evolution of Savonnerie carpets, but had simpler designs with subdued colors and the use of lush garden plants and garlands.

Aubusson French carpets typically have a higher pile than Persian rugs, which allows for the creation of deeper carves and different design motifs.

Often including a floral design, Aubusson tapestries and rugs utilize a variety of rich coloring, including pastel dyes, to create art that was and still is a central point of one’s home decor.

Lasting Influence

The style of Aubusson carpets had an enormous influence on overseas production, and between the end of the 18th century and the mid-19th century, it became the model to imitate, even in the Orient and especially in Anatolia.

(Other spelling: Aubuson)