Oriental Rugs Dictionary
Alcaraz
The first known reference to carpets being woven in Spain is contained in a Latin poem of the eleventh Century, and documents of the twelfth and thirteenth Centuries indicate that carpet weaving was a well developed industry in Spain especially in the towns of Alcaraz and Letur.
Many of the Islamic secrets of dyeing and fixing were lost when the Moors left Spain during the Catholic domination of Isabella and Ferdinand. Throughout the 16th and 17th Centuries there was a progressive reduction of number of dyes used. A two color scheme was consciously sought as new patterns of a more pronounced European character were adopted, following the importation of Venetian velvets and tapestries through France and the Low Countries which gave new inspiration for design.
Alcaraz
Alcaraz is a historic weaving town in Castile, Spain, known for producing carpets during the 15th–17th centuries. Spanish carpets from Alcaraz often display strong Moorish design influences, reflecting the Islamic artistic traditions that shaped Spanish decorative arts during the medieval period.
Typical designs include geometric lattice patterns, stylized floral motifs, and heraldic elements that later blended with European Renaissance styles.
Alcaraz carpets represent an important stage in the development of early European carpet weaving.
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