Vintage Swedish Rollakan & Scandinavian Kilim Rugs Collection

Stemming from ancient weaving techniques adopted from several Asian countries, many vintage Scandinavian rugs incorporate a type of Swedish traditional weaving called Rollakans, which were once used as flat-woven tapestries or coverlets. The Rollakans included in our online vintage Swedish Scandinavian Rug Collection feature beautiful, all-over geometric patterns that are effortlessly chic and tastefully understated. Like a gentle invitation to reflection and relaxation, our Swedish Scandinavian Modern Rug Collection clears the mind and soothes the soul.

History of Swedish Flat-Weave Kilim Carpets & Rya Rugs

The Middle Ages saw Swedish and Scandinavian rugs bearing Oriental ornamentation and styles as a result of active trade routes. By the 19^th century, Scandinavian rug weavers had developed an intense interest in imaginative motifs and geometric patterns largely inspired by regional myths and folklore.

The most significant change in Swedish rug making features was the introduction of Rollakans. These flat-woven rugs spotlighted a gorgeous palette of colors ranging from warm shades of beige, yellow and plum to vivid hues of orange, Falu red and contrasting whites. Falu red is a strictly Swedish red originating from copper mines at Falun (Dalarna, Sweden). Reserved mainly for the upper class, Falun red required a precise blend of water, linseed oil, rye flour and copper mine tailings that contained copper compounds, zinc and iron oxides.

By the early 20th century, exquisitely woven Scandinavian Rollakans similar to the ones displayed in our online Vintage Swedish Rug Collection were revered as international art pieces funded partly by the Swedish government. Skilled Swedish rug and carpet weavers established trendsetting styles with vividly colorful, culturally rich rugs that enthusiasts deemed to be the epitome of mid-20 ^th century modern designs with Art Deco vibes.

Displaying their seamless incorporation of minimalist motifs and au courant colors, vintage Swedish Scandinavian rugs have a natural ability to enhance nearly any eclectic or contemporary decor with the elegance of symmetrical aesthetics combined with the stark beauty of culturally definitive compositions. The overall design aesthetic of Scandinavian Modern style is simple and modest with an emphasis on functionality and warmth.

Swedish Scandinavian Modern Rollakans and Kilim Rugs

Scandinavian kilims and Swedish rugs have the unique ability to harmonize effortlessly with many different interior design styles: Hygge, Organic Modern, New Nordic, Contemporary, Danish Modern, Mid-Century Modern, Art Deco, Cubism, Folk Art, Nomadic, and Industrial. Incorporating warp strands and tightly interwoven wefts, Scandinavian kilim rugs use colorfully designed wool for weft strands, making them highly desired by collectors and interior designers. In addition to abundant symbolism, various pattern placements, floral designs and rich shades of yellow, white and gray.

A leading figure in modern Scandinavian rug-making and Swedish textile art is Märta Måås-Fjetterström, whose flat-weave rugs you will find at Esmaili Rugs and Antiques. Unbelievably skilled in imagining composition, form and line, MMF weavers rug creations are full of natural visions transformed into decorative works of art considered esteemed ornamental treasures by rug historians and enthusiasts.

A Few of Our Favorite Swedish Weavers

• Marta Maas-Fjetterstrom
• Barbro Nilsson
• Ida Rydelius
• Ingrid Dessau
• Ingegerd Silow
• Anna Andersson
• Marianne Richter
• Anna Johanna Aengstrom

If you would like to learn more about how you can purchase Swedish Scandinavian rugs online at Esmaili Rugs and Antiques, contact us online today or call us at 214-651-7847.