A Serapi Carpet

Serapi rugs are to all intents and purposes a particular type or grade of what are called Heriz rugs - more specifically the highest grade in terms of weave, and very probably the oldest type in terms of age. Heriz carpets are generally coarsely woven. Since the early twentieth century they have come to make use of light blue cotton wefting. Serapis, in contrast, have a higher knot count, sometimes attaining 80 knots per square inch. Their backs are relatively flat, and they have ivory cotton wefting. Generally they have a softer floppier handle than Herizes, and they are thinner. In terms of design, drawing, and coloration as well, Serapi rugs are clearly part of one and the same tradition as Herize rugs. what distinguishes Serapi from Herize is once again their more refined approach. The articulation of the medallions is crisper, more finely linear, and open. The vines are more finely proportioned, and there is more open space in the field, allowing the large leafy palmette forms to stand out with greater clarity and elegance. The same distinctions are apparent in the treatment of the borders. On the whole, it appears that what we call Serapi carpets are simply the oldest, most well-designed, and finely woven Herizes.