To help clients understand the realm of antique rugs and to better understand their value in the context of other valuable art and antiques, Mr. Winitz developed a proprietary Oriental Rug Pyramid ™as a graphic and comprehensive tool to comprehend the market for handwoven Oriental rugs.

Reproduction Rugs

Level 6 | Reproductions Typically 1970 to present — The newest contributions to the hand-woven market are adaptations of traditional Persian designs created in a broad range of qualities. These are by far the most widely available Oriental…

Decorative Rugs

Level 5 | Decorative Primarily 1920 to 1970— When the decorative rug market exploded, most of the resultant weavings fell into this category. The level of materials, craftsmanship and innovative artistry decreased notably, with often…

High-Decorative Rugs

Level 4 | High-Decorative Primarily 1875 to 1910 — With international demand increasing rapidly, the number of working looms, more rugs were woven for export, and designs became less complex and color palettes changed to satisfy Western…

Connoisseur-Caliber Rugs

Level 3 | Connoisseur-Caliber Primarily from circa 1850 to late 19th century — This category encompasses outstanding rugs from all of the major Persian and tribal groups. The period starting around 1875 is often termed “The Revival…

High-Collectible Rugs

Level 2 | High-Collectible Primarily from early 19th century to circa 1875 — Artistic achievement and great originality flourished this period. These best-of-the-best caliber rugs exhibit fluid, subtly varied designs a highly exotic use…

Museum-Quality Rugs

Level 1 | Museum-Quality Primarily 13th to 18th centuries — The Persian Safavid dynasty that ruled from 1501–1736 (“The Golden Age of Persian Weaving”) sponsored workshops that produced many of the finest carpets the world has ever…