What is a Tibetan carpet? Is it made in Tibet?
Hand made rugs have been part of the Tibetan culture for hundreds of years. They are an integral part of the daily life and Buddhist practices of typical Tibetan households. These beautiful pieces are highly valued and are passed on from generation to generation. In olden times a young woman might spend months weaving a set to bring into her new home upon marriage. Traditionally, these rugs are used for sitting or sleeping on, rather than walking on. That’s why many antique rugs are about 3 feet by 6 feet in size; this size fits the raised banquets that function as both seating areas and beds in many Tibetan houses. Particularly fine weaving or patterns of an enlightened nature are used in monasteries and by Buddhist practitioners during seated meditation. There are also smaller rugs, sometimes called meditation rugs, which are the right size for one person to sit on.In modern times, the rugs are made larger to accommodate use as floor carpets. New patterns and designs complement conte