A useful appraisal begins by understanding the question you are trying to answer. Value, possible age or origin, authenticity, condition and documentation needs can require different kinds of review.
A rug appraisal request can begin with several different questions. We first identify what you need to know and what information can reasonably support that question.
Value is not determined by age alone. Origin, materials, construction, design, size, condition, rarity, provenance when available and relevant market context can all matter. The appropriate type of value can also depend on why the appraisal is needed.
Construction details, materials, design, wear and other physical characteristics may help in discussing possible age or origin. Photographs can support a preliminary review, but some questions cannot be resolved confidently without closer or physical examination.
A review may consider whether the rug’s construction, materials and design are consistent with a claimed type or origin. A website submission by itself is not a certification or guaranteed authentication.
Relevant factors may include origin, age, materials, knotting or construction, design, size, condition, repairs, rarity, provenance and current market context.
The importance of each factor varies from rug to rug. A visibly older rug is not automatically more valuable, and two rugs that appear similar can differ significantly in quality, condition and market relevance.
An online request can be a useful starting point. Clear overall photographs, images of the back, fringe and edges, measurements, labels or signatures and close-ups of relevant details may help us understand what additional review is appropriate.
Some conclusions may require physical inspection or additional documentation. If a formal written valuation is needed for insurance, estate, donation or another specific purpose, the intended use and scope should be discussed before the work is undertaken.
The first steps are designed to identify your question and determine what level of review is appropriate.
Describe what you know about the rug and what you would like help understanding, including any known history, measurements or documentation.
We review the information available and determine what additional photographs, details, records or physical inspection may be useful.
We discuss what can reasonably be evaluated, any important limitations, and whether a more formal appraisal or inspection is appropriate for your purpose.
Tell us what you know about the rug and what question you are trying to answer. We can begin with an appraisal review request and discuss the appropriate next step.
