Description
This versatile vintage Scandinavian Rya rug can be used as a decorative wall hanging or area rug. The brilliant design features varying tones of red, orange, yellow and brown. The geometric design is reminiscent of motifs found in Western Native American folk art. However, the shapes may simply be an example of Scandinavian minimalism and rhythmic composition. Textile wall hangings add warmth to a home and diminish noise. Folks living in apartments and condos may find the acoustic benefit to just as pleasurable as the aesthetic appeal. The thick woolen one inch pile feels especially delightful under the feet when used as a rug. A wood support beam is tacked to the top edge of the carpet. Pull the tacks to remove the beam if you’d like to use the rya as an area rug.
The rya measures 4’10” x 6’10” (just shy of the standard 5×7) and has a one inch pile.
Rya rugs are traditional Scandinavian wool rugs with a shag-like pile of 1-3 inches. They are knotted, with each knot composed of 3 strands of wool, which enables the rug to exhibit a rich texture from all the different shades of color. They were made using a form of the Ghiordes knot to make the double-sided pile fabric. Rya means “rug” in English, the original meaning in Sweden of rya was a bed cover with a knotted pile. Rya rugs have been a part of Scandinavian culture for centuries. For many centuries the plush textiles were used as bedding rather than carpets. In Sweden, ryas were used by the nobility as bedding as well as a display of social status. By the 18th century ryas had become highly decorative and were used as dowries, eventually becoming family heirlooms. American’s caught onto the charm of ryas during the 1970s. The wild colors, patterns, and rich pile fit right in with the kaleidoscopic flair of the disco age. Since then, these stylish Scandinavian textiles have become sought after treasures on the collectors market. Valued for the their craftsmanship and artistry, not to mention their practicality! After all, Scandinavian design wouldn’t be complete without a high degree of function following beauty.
