Canvello Fine Hand Knotted Savonnerie Rug - 5'11'' X 8'11''

Savonnerie Carpets have a rich history that dates back to the early seventeenth century. Pierre DuPont, a weaver, traveled to the Levant and upon his return, claimed to have discovered the technique of creating Turkish rugs. Oriental rugs were highly prized during Bourbon times, and a French manufactory that could create the same type of rug would significantly lower the price.

Taking advantage of DuPont's skills, Henri VI of France established a workshop for him at the Louvre. In 1627, King Louis XIII founded a manufactory for DuPont and his apprentice, Simon Lourdet, on the site of a defunct soap factory in the sixteenth arrondissement (also known as Quai de Chaillot). The name "Savonnerie" was born from the French word "savon" meaning "soap."

DuPont and Lourdet worked together, weaving rugs under a royal patent for the king and other nobles until they had a falling out and split up. Lourdet remained at the Chaillot location while DuPont went to his workshops in the Louvre, though both continued to make Savonnerie rugs.

Today, Savonnerie rugs are highly sought-after for their intricate designs and superb craftsmanship, and they remain a testament to the rich history of French rug-making.