Ziegler Rugs

Ziegler – the modern evolution of the hand-knotted rug

The history of Ziegler rugs begins in the early 1870s, when the Anglo-Swiss company Ziegler & Co. of Manchester set up its own rug production in what was then Sarouk (today Arak). With the permission of the Shah of Persia, the Swiss businessman “Philipp Ziegler” became the very first European to be allowed to have his own rugs made locally and independently in the Persian manner.

Originally, the company successfully exported domestic cloth products, an expansion helped by the special trade relations of the British Empire and its “protectorate”. In 1872, a decree then ruled that foreign companies were also allowed to produce independently in the country.

Turning old into modern

It was not only demand for Ziegler's cloth products that grew, but also, and above all, demand for oriental rugs in Europe. Among wealthy enthusiasts, not least the aristocracy, distinct aesthetic ideas and wishes gradually developed, which were naturally catered for promptly – at corresponding prices. Ziegler drew inspiration from the classic designs, but developed new interpretations of them with his well-to-do clientele in mind.

With success: these adaptations quickly made the Persian rugs coveted objects in the salons of the elite. Unfortunately, this development came to an abrupt end with the effects of the global stock market crash and the subsequent Great Depression of 1928/29.

Nevertheless, the Ziegler remained popular, and in the following decades production gradually shifted from Persia to Pakistan, Afghanistan and India.

An authentic echo

Even though the rugs are no longer made in their original manufactory today, their prestige remains undiminished. A special feature of modern versions is the so-called stone wash, which gives the pile an antique look after knotting. In this technique, the oriental rug is rubbed with stones and bleached in the sun, creating a unique finish that softens the colours and sometimes makes the pile appear slightly worn.

They are still elaborately hand-knotted using traditional techniques and high-quality virgin sheep's wool. This wool is also hand-spun and then dyed with natural plant dyes, which accounts for its natural brilliance of colour.

The West filters the Orient

The Ziegler was created to unite oriental aesthetics with the preferences of a Western audience. The venerable oriental rugs were valued, but Ziegler & Co. realised that its clientele was looking for something specific: a rug that would fit into their already well-appointed, elegant rooms without overwhelming them.

This gave rise to rugs with soft tones and subtle designs that nevertheless retained the charm and craftsmanship of their models. The varied patterns were initially borrowed from the tastes of the Safavid period, with the central medallion so common in the oriental rug replaced by evenly distributed all-over floral motifs.

Rugs reduced to the essentials

The colour palette is deliberately restrained and characterised by the warmth of its colours and the finesse of its decoration. Beige tones often dominate, complemented by accents of red, blue, green or brown. It must be stressed, however, that the range of types is constantly growing thanks to new-fangled variety.

The well of inspiration from original Persian models is simply too deep, and it keeps giving rise to new variations and stylistic innovations.

Usually the colour spectrum is reduced, visually calming the appearance of the originals. This creates elegant offshoots that complement modern, upmarket interior styles superbly and sometimes more easily. It is fair to assume that among oriental rugs there is no other that can match the many facets of the Ziegler rug.

Vintage for everyone

The Ziegler is known for its exceptional versatility. Thanks to its subtle patterns and colours, its vintage look lends a refined elegance to almost any interior style, so it can be used in many different rooms. Whether in the living room, bedroom or hallway – it creates a warm, inviting atmosphere and sets stylish accents.

For easier orientation, you will find our large selection of models in the following 5 subcategories, which work as filters and each represent a particular character:

• Ziegler Modern

• Ziegler Ariana

• Ziegler Bachtiari

• Ziegler Shal

• Ziegler Kazak

Ziegler rugs from Morgenland can be bought at any time in our online shop in a wide range of shapes, sizes and colours. You can make full use of our after-order services, with fast delivery and free shipping from a minimum order value.

An exquisite rug – easy care

A Ziegler is not only a decorative element but also an investment in high quality and durability. To keep your rug beautiful for a long time, regular care is essential. Although the sheep's wool used is naturally dirt-repellent, it is advisable to vacuum the rug regularly to remove dust and dirt. Ideally, do not use a brush attachment, so as to protect the pile.

If the rug is heavily soiled, professional cleaning can help. Ziegler rugs are typically dyed using plants as the raw material, which makes them particularly resistant to fading. Nevertheless, it is advisable to turn the rug from time to time to ensure even wear.

Order Ziegler rugs online – exquisite rug types at Morgenland ✓

A Ziegler rug stands for elaborate craftsmanship. At Morgenland you can find out more and choose from a wide range of fine types – from classic designs from Tabriz and Kerman to exquisite pieces from Nain. Whether you are looking for a rug under €1,000 or a masterpiece up to €5,000 – you are sure to find the right one in our shop.

You can buy conveniently online and, if you wish, find further information with a simple click. You can narrow down our extensive range sensibly by setting the filter options to suit you, and our personal advice ensures that our Ziegler rugs meet even the most demanding wishes, which you can adjust at any time. For a home that radiates beauty and finesse – trust Morgenland.

The alternative Ziegler

Choosing a Ziegler rug means choosing a unique work of art – a statement that will enrich your interior for decades. Made robustly from the finest materials and with the greatest care, they offer an incomparable combination of tradition and modernity. They are beautiful, durable, versatile and easily cope with the demands of everyday life.

Deliberately adapted to European taste back then and traded today as an affordable alternative to Persian rugs, the rug continues to enjoy unbroken popularity and fascinates with ever new variations of a traditional craft.