There are corners of the Liberty London store that even seasoned shoppers overlook. Beyond the perfumed halls and explosion of floral prints lies something utterly captivating: a silent, labyrinthine space, stratified in color, texture, and history.
If you know Liberty, you'll appreciate that this name has long been synonymous with artisanal mastery. Founded in 1875 by Arthur Lasenby Liberty, the store built its reputation by finding exceptional goods from around the globe, feeding the Victorian appetite for the exotic and handcrafted. Carpets naturally fit into this narrative. What began as a general fascination with Oriental textiles evolved into a dedicated department – one that would soon become among the most respected in Europe.
For decades, Liberty's Oriental Rugs Department, owned by Bruce Lepere, has been a secret marvel, an Aladdin's cave with over 4,000 hand-woven pieces. Now, given its closure is scheduled for May 2026, this place seems more significant than ever.
Located on the fourth floor of London's Tudor-style building, the department presents a striking contrast to the rest of the impeccably organized store. Carpets are stacked high, over wooden balustrades and arranged in dense layers. Many pieces draw upon centuries-old weaving traditions, from Persian medallion designs to Anatolian geometric patterns and fine silk carpets from Kashmir. Lepere personally acquires each item from select locations: the sun-scorched expanse of Dasht-e Kavir, the vibrant bazaars of Peshawar, and the rugged peaks of the Hindu Kush.
