Below are the reasons that lead a specialist to examine the back of a rug:

• Rug Structure The rug’s back reveals the technical aspects of the weave and knots, aiding in determining its origin.

• Rug Quality The back exposes the weave’s thickness and knot density.

• Rug Restoration Restorations, often less visible on the rug’s front, can be more clearly identified on the back.

• Rug Dyes The rug’s back can provide information about the dyes used, particularly if there’s a significant color disparity between the rug’s two sides. The front is usually lighter than the back, primarily due to sunlight-induced fading. However, if an antique rug exhibits identical coloration on both sides, it may suggest artificial painting to conceal fading.

• Approximate Rug Age The back’s texture can help estimate the rug’s age. Over time, the back of a rug becomes relatively smooth, while most new rugs have a more fibrous and fluffy texture. Examining the back can be crucial in determining the approximate age of an antique rug that appears relatively new on the front.