Black cotton sits well beside a pale sofa, a dark wooden table or a scatter of mustard cushions, and the Azizi Kelim in black holds its own next to all three. The pattern keeps it lively without shouting.

• 100% cotton, front and backing
• Handwoven in India
• Flat-woven
• Rectangular
• Suitable for underfloor heating

Cotton is a plant fibre taken from the seed hairs of the cotton plant, and it takes dye well, which suits the strong black of this cotton rug. The Azizi is woven by hand on a loom, and the flat weave means crumbs and stray hairs lift off easily. That makes it a practical kitchen rug, and a sensible pick for a nursery or playroom. Measure the spot first and pick the size that leaves some floor around it. In the living room it looks right at home, and as a black dining room rug it frames a table well. Other colourways of the Azizi include beige, blue, brown, yellow, grey and green, if black feels too strong.

Looking after the black Azizi

A non-slip pad cut slightly smaller than the rug stops it creeping and keeps the corners flat, as we explain in our guide to cleaning your rug. Shake it out and vacuum lightly, and dab small marks with cold water and a mild soap. Let it dry fully.