Rug

Learn more about our rugs

Native American rugs: when decor becomes heritage

At Harpo, the Native American rugs we offer are specifically Zapotec rugs, woven in southern Mexico, in the Oaxaca region. Crafted on old foot-powered looms, these 100% wool pieces often take weeks, or even months, to complete, depending on their size.

Each Zapotec Native American rug tells a story: that of a people known as the “people of the clouds,” who raise their sheep, harvest their wool, spin it, and weave it according to a tradition that has been alive since 500 B.C. These are pieces chosen as much for their beauty as for the cultural and human connection they embody.

Native American-patterned rugs: symbols, colors, and weaves

The Native American rugs in our collection are distinguished by their geometric patterns and graphic compositions inspired by pre-Columbian indigenous symbols. Some designs feature traditional emblems, while others are original creations by the artisans, guided by their appreciation for beauty and color harmony.

​Starting in the 1970s, certain iconic motifs of Navajo culture were incorporated into Zapotec weaves, giving rise to Native American-patterned rugs that blend Mexican heritage with influences from the Southwestern United States. Thus, depending on the piece, our designs feature “Moqui stripes,” “Petroglyphs,” “Diamante” motifs, or botanical compositions such as “Maguey Joven.”

Zapotec rugs: traditional craftsmanship made from 100% wool

A Zapotec rug is much more than just an ethnic rug: it is the result of a long artisanal process passed down from generation to generation. The wool, initially worked in its raw state, is cleaned by hand, air-dried, then patiently combed out and softened before being spun.

The dyes used for these Zapotec rugs are mostly natural, derived from plants, minerals, or insects, such as the cochineal, which produces the deep red so characteristic of Oaxaca weaves. Since the 19th century, some artisans have also incorporated aniline pigments, allowing them to play with natural shades and more vibrant colors while remaining true to their craftsmanship.

Every Zapotec rug available online or in-store is a one-of-a-kind piece, with designs ranging from the most traditional to the most contemporary. Depending on the model, you’ll find rugs with Native American motifs in shades of turquoise, deep red, ochre, or cream—always made of 100% wool—in a variety of sizes to suit every room in the house.

A Native American rug for a warm, cozy look.

A Native American rug is a statement piece that instantly transforms the atmosphere of a room. Whether placed in an entryway, at the foot of a bed, in front of a sofa, or in the center of a living room, it adds color, texture, and a touch of bohemian chic that complements both a Parisian apartment and a country home. They also pair effortlessly with other Native American decor items, such as pottery, fetishes, or Zapotec cushion covers available in our decor section.

How to choose your Native American rug?  

To choose the perfect Native American rug, start by considering the size: a small rug for a decorative accent, a medium-sized one for a bedroom or hallway, or a large Zapotec rug to anchor a living space. The product descriptions detail the dimensions, wool composition, and pattern name for each piece to help you visualize how it will look in your home.

Next comes the question of style: do you prefer vibrant, intricately patterned Native American rugs that take weeks to weave, or do you prefer simpler designs with large geometric blocks of color? 

If you’re unsure, our team is available to assist you in-store at 19 rue de Turbigo in Paris, or by phone and email, to help you choose the Zapotec rug that best suits your home.

Thank you for supporting inspired Natives, not Native inspired