Art-Level Antique Oriental Rugs and How to Recognize Them (Part 1) Claremont Rug Company's proprietary Antique Rug Pyramid (tm) divides antique Oriental rugs into six tiers to help collectors make their selections. By Jan David Winitz OAKLAND, CA .- Whether you are a long-time collector or a neophyte developing an interest, the world of antique Oriental carpets woven during the Second Golden Age of Persian Weaving (ca. 1800 to ca. 1910) is both stimulating and rewarding. There is a wide range of Oriental carpets that can bring us pleasure and pride of ownership as they grace our homes. Yet only very few are also strong long-term investments worthy of collecting. With little exception, these are true antiques dating from the early 19th century to the turn of the 20th century. I term these pieces art-level rugs.