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A muted geometric rug on a pale oak floor

Abstract and geometric rugs

Shapes, grids, and where the look comes from.

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Abstract and geometric, in plain words

A geometric design is built from shapes such as squares, rectangles, triangles, and chevrons. An abstract design does not picture a recognizable object. A rug can be both at once.

The grid inside weaving

Encyclopaedia Iranica describes the basic structure: warps run from end to end of the rug, and wefts pass from side to side, alternately over and under the warps, binding them into the foundation. Those lengthwise and crosswise threads form a grid.

A museum example

Cooper Hewitt describes a Stölzl design for Jacquard-woven textiles that "incorporates a variety of geometric patterns containing rectangles, squares, triangles, and chevrons," rendered in a muted palette.

Pattern and repetition

Cooper Hewitt says the Jacquard technique is marked by its ability to produce unlimited reproductions. A repeated shape is one way a geometric design can fill a rug.

What we do not do

We do not reproduce or name designer patterns, and we do not point to any maker's collection.

The grid in the loom. Warps, wefts, and shapes.

FAQ

No. Geometric describes shapes; contemporary describes the present period. A geometric design can be old or new.
We have no source on that, so we do not say. Our cleaning guide covers what CCI says about spills.

General information only. Keep walking paths clear. The CDC's home fall prevention checklist for older adults says to remove throw rugs, or use double-sided tape or a non-slip backing so the rugs won't slip. Follow the maker's label and instructions for any rug, rug pad, tape, or cleaning product. If someone falls and is hurt, get medical help. In an emergency, call 911.

Next: modern vs contemporary

Two words, two meanings.