Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Antique Carpets, Rugs & Tapestries in London
Established in 1933, C. John has built an unparalleled reputation as a leading authority in antique carpets, rugs, and tapestries. Our expertise spans eight decades, guided by generations of specialists who have advised royalty, private collectors, and prestigious institutions worldwide. We maintain rigorous selection criteria, evaluating each piece for craftsmanship, historical significance, and durability to ensure enduring value. Our Royal Warrant as suppliers to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II since 1966 underscores our commitment to excellence. With a global network of clients and participation in international antique associations, we combine deep market knowledge with personalized service.Our restoration workshops employ traditional techniques to preserve the integrity of historic textiles while offering modern solutions for contemporary interiors. Sustainability remains central to our practice, utilizing natural materials and eco-friendly conservation methods. Through home viewings and curated collections, we facilitate informed decisions for discerning clients seeking timeless decorative investments.
Services
Antique Carpets
Restoration Services
Carpet Hire
Interior Design Consultancy
Bespoke Collections
Details
- Year established: 1933
Highlights and features
- Established heritage since 1933 with Royal Warrant appointment
- Expert-led restoration using traditional craftsmanship techniques
- Global network serving UK, USA, and European clients
- Sustainable practices with natural materials and eco-friendly conservation
- Personalized home viewing service for informed decisions
Associations and certifications
- British Antique Dealers Association
- CINOA
Services
Antique Carpets
C. John curates an extensive collection of antique carpets dating from the 18th to early 20th centuries. Each piece undergoes rigorous authentication for craftsmanship, provenance, and condition. Our inventory includes rare Bessarabian, Persian, and Aubusson examples, suitable for both traditional and contemporary interiors. Clients benefit from expert guidance on selection, investment potential, and conservation.
Restoration Services
Our specialist workshop provides comprehensive restoration for antique carpets and tapestries. Services include hand-cleaning, moth damage repair, and structural reinforcement using traditional techniques. We employ vegetable dyes and recycled materials to maintain historical integrity while ensuring longevity. Non-C. John pieces receive equal attention through our professional conservation program.
Carpet Hire
C. John offers period-accurate carpets for film, television, and magazine productions. Our collection has featured in major motion pictures including James Bond films and Stanley Kubrick's Eyes Wide Shut. Clients receive tailored support for set dressing requirements, with delivery and installation services available for production sets and photo shoots.
Interior Design Consultancy
We collaborate with interior designers to create cohesive spaces using historic textiles as focal points. Our consultants advise on colour schemes, room composition, and investment-grade acquisitions. With showrooms in London and international reach, we facilitate private viewings and provide expert recommendations for residential and commercial projects.
Bespoke Collections
The Parsua Collection showcases contemporary carpets combining traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics. Each piece is individually commissioned, blending heritage techniques with innovative designs. Clients receive exclusive access to limited-edition works that bridge historical artistry with current interior design trends.
People
Leon Sassoon
Owner, Expert and Consultant
Leon Sassoon has directed C. John's operations since 1978, building on family expertise spanning eight decades. Recognized globally for his textile knowledge, he advises major auction houses and interior designers. His personal warranty guarantees authenticity and quality for every purchase.
Questions
What types of antique carpets do you specialize in?
We specialize in 18th-20th century carpets including Persian, Bessarabian, Aubusson, and Caucasian examples, with particular expertise in rare historical pieces.
Do you offer restoration services for non-C. John carpets?
Yes, our conservation experts provide professional restoration for antique carpets and tapestries regardless of their original source or provenance.
Can I view carpets in my home before purchasing?
We offer home viewing services to demonstrate how pieces complement specific interiors, with delivery and installation support available.
Are your carpets environmentally sustainable?
Antique textiles have negative carbon footprints. We use natural materials and eco-friendly methods for conservation and restoration processes.
Do you work with interior designers?
Yes, we collaborate with leading designers in the UK, USA, and Europe, providing exclusive access to investment-grade historic textiles.
Have your carpets appeared in films?
Our collection has featured in major productions including James Bond films, Eyes Wide Shut, and various magazine publications.
