The Rug Code: Symbolic Meanings Behind Armenian Carpets

Combining traditional Armenian rug making techniques with modern design, The Rug Code, founded by Kyle Khandikian, celebrates the ancient magic of Armenian carpets. Made up of a collective of weavers, dyers, artists, historians, ethnographers, and storytellers, they are dedicated to sharing Armenian rugs and the coded meanings of their ornaments.

Star Field, Pakhlava, and Dragon Bloom Rugs by The Rug Code

The rugs are created by rural makers, providing meaningful employment to rug-makers in Armenia’s villages, while also allowing them to keep the practice of rug-making alive. Within each carpet made by The Rug Code are symbols that have been present in Armenian rug weaving for centuries. The weavers who make them are known as ‘coders’, and the historic symbols and motifs woven into the carpets are studied on a historical level by both international and local rug experts.

An example of a de-coded rug, with the meanings inherent in each motif.

Storytelling is integral to their mission and as such, The Rug Code seek to be transparent in every aspect of the production journey, with each piece noting the maker and the meaning behind the motifs, so the owner of a new carpet can understand it’s origins and also 'decode' their rug.

Artisan rug 'coders' in their studio, The Rug Code

Despite Armenia being one of the oldest centres for rug making in the world, the practice of rug making is currently in danger of disappearing from Armenia’s villages. The Rug Code is on a mission to breathe new life into this craft. They aim to continue creating meaningful employment for rural weavers, working exclusively with artisans outside of the capital and constantly striving to improve working conditions, benefits and wages. Their weavers currently come from two Armenia-based social enterprises: Goris Handmade and Noyemberyan House of Culture. Goris Handmade creates opportunities for unemployed women in the Syunik Province of Armenia, while Noyemberyan House of Culture represents three generations of rug makers from Noyemberyan, Jujevan and Voskepar.

Locally sourced wool by Woolway Armenia, ready to be spun and prepared for weaving

The wool used in The Rug Code’s carpets is also sourced locally, from Woolway Armenia. It is sheared from flocks of local sheep, which is then sent to be washed, dried and spun into thread by hand. The thread is either left a natural colour, or hand-dyed using traditional methods in small batches with organic, plant-based materials. The weaving process can then begin, taking between 12 to 16 weeks for each rug to be completed. The finished rug is then washed and left to dry in the sun before being shipped to its new owner.

Each of The Rug Code’s carpets is inspired by the ancient and contemporary art of Armenia, its landscapes and natural materials. Deeply imbued in Armenian symbolism, they are just waiting to be decoded.

Words by Lizzy Vartanian

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Further Information:

The Rug Code

Website

@therugcode

Armenian Rugs Society

Website

@armenianrugssociety1980

Lizzy Vartanian

@lizzyvartanian

@armenianembroidery

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Image Credits:

Lead Image: Blossoms Rug - A reinterpretation of the fruit or fruit blossoms depicted in the late 19th century rug that inspired the Barana Collection. Flowers and fruit symbolise revival and well-being. 

All other images courtesy of The Rug Code