Due to the beauty of their designs and colours, Arraiolos rugs have since long occupied a privileged place among the pieces of Portuguese Handicraft. Arraiolos rugs are hand-embroidered on jute canvas with pure wool in a large variety of colors. Their origin dates back to the end of the 16th century and the beginning of the 17th century. At the time the oriental motives predominated inspired by the ancient art of Persian rug-making. Along the 17th century new themes were added as animals, namely birds, lions deer, rabbits, etc., being red, yellow and green the dominant colours.

In the 18th century, the large foliage, the central medallion, the geometric motives made their appearance in shadings of yellow, blue and green.

Finally in the 19th century there comes the human figure as rug ornament along with delicate flower wreaths and vases, stitched in salmon, pink, brown and yellow shadings.

Some examples of tradicional rugs...

Ref.: T200	Ref.: T209
Ref.: T207A	Ref.: T128
Ref.: T801	Ref.: T214