History of Mexican Rugs and Zapotec Weaving
The early origins of Mexican carpets featured the use of chichicaste fiber (1800 BCE) for everyday use. Antique Mexican rugs designed for nobility were also enhanced with delicate embroidery to elevate their aesthetic.
Pre-colonial weavers had their own dyeing traditions that resulted in cochineal red and indigo blue. After the arrival of the Spanish, native peoples incorporated new techniques into their craft. More modern elements included the use of wool, spinning on a wheel, and weaving on a pedal loom.
Yet even as Europe infused its techniques into Mexico, Mexican culture had a profound influence on other nations. Weavers in Turkey and China were enamored with the quality and vibrant nature of Mexican dyes and imported them from Mexico to use in their own Turkish and Chinese rugs.
Find the Perfect Rug for Homes, Hotels, & More With Esmaili Rugs
Whether you’re searching for vintage Mexican rugs or antique Oushak carpets, Esmaili Rugs is your number one choice. Our showroom features one of the largest curated inventories of global rugs in the United States. Our team has decades of expertise in sourcing rare, authentic Mexican textiles and crafting personalized collections for exclusive private viewings.
Esmaili Rugs has a team of concierge design consultants who can help interior designers, collectors, and homeowners discover the unique cultural heirlooms that will add rich history and unique self-expression to any space. Shop antique and contemporary carpets for homes, hotels, and more here.
Zapotec Weaving Tradition
Zapotec rugs are a subcategory of Mexican carpets that originated over 2,000 years ago in modern-day Oaxaca (Teotitlán del Valle). These unique pieces were initially made as tribute textiles for Aztec and Mixtec rulers once the Zapotec people became subjects in these empires. Although modern Zapotec weavers strive to hold onto the traditions of their ancestors with handmade, natural dyes and wool creations, there are Zapotec pieces available that are made using synthetic dyes and wool blends.
Shop Mexican Carpets
At Esmaili Rugs, we’re able to find exclusive rugs and carpets from around the world that you won’t see in any other collection. Shop our online store or schedule a personal rug preview to explore the woven legacies of cultures from around the world, including Mexican heritage, Scandinavian styles, and Persian carpets.
