Persian rug valuations.
A written appraisal of your rug: how it was made, where and roughly when it was woven, its condition, and our opinion of its value, for insurance, estate matters or sale.
Structural inspection
Knot type, knot density, the foundation and how the ends and sides were finished. Structure is what separates a handwoven rug from a copy, and one weaving group from another.
Attribution
Where the rug was woven, by which group or workshop where it can be told, and roughly when.
Palette analysis
The dyes and colours, and what they say about the rug’s age and origin.
Condition
Wear, repairs, losses and any work the rug needs, all of which bear on its value.
Market comparison
How comparable pieces are priced, which underpins the value we give.
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Send photographs
Email the whole rug from the front and back, a close-up of the back near a corner, and its size. That is often enough to tell you what we can do.
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Bring it in if needed
Some pieces need to be seen in person. If so, bring the rug to the gallery.
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Your written appraisal
You receive a written appraisal covering structure, attribution, palette, condition and market comparison, with our opinion of value.
FREQUENTLY ASKED
How much does a rug valuation cost?
It depends on how many pieces there are and whether we need to see them in person. Email us photographs and sizes and we will give you a price before any work starts.
What does a written appraisal include?
A structural inspection, attribution (where and roughly when the rug was woven), palette analysis, an assessment of condition, a comparison with the market, and our opinion of the rug’s value.
Will my insurer accept your appraisal?
Insurers set their own requirements, so please check with yours before you book. Many ask for a written valuation of any single item worth more than a set amount, and for it to be updated every few years.
What is the difference between replacement value and market value?
Replacement value is what it would cost to buy a comparable rug at retail, which is what most insurance cover is based on. Market value is what the rug would be likely to sell for, which is usually lower. Tell us what the appraisal is for and we will value it on the right basis.
Can you value a rug from photographs?
Often we can tell a great deal from good photographs of the front, the back and a close-up of the knots. Older or finer pieces may need to be seen in person before we put a value in writing.
How often should a rug be revalued?
Every few years, or sooner if the market for that type of rug moves or the rug is damaged or repaired. Your insurer may set a limit on how old a valuation can be.
Bring it to the gallery.
Drop your rug at our Richmond gallery during opening hours, or send photographs first and we will come back to you with advice and a price.