I appears you have room to inch the rug away from the fireplace a bit...have you tried? I would sell versus cutting it down.

I agree with Sammie, can the rug be moved a few inches away from the FP? then it would be fine. it's really hard to tell from the photos.

please don't cut it! it's so gorgeous. sell it. or... is there anywhere in the house it could be used? even in an infrequently used room?

Where did you purchase the rug?

I ask because if it were a store front dealer, you probably can exchange it for a different rug.

Naturally, money will be involved, but a good rug dealer surely will be happy to make you happy. A quality rug always is a commodity.

You have laid this large rug over carpeting…not a good idea with a flat weave as it will buckle and drive you nuts. Same goes for the American Orientals in the hall.

Any chance there is hardwood under the white carpet?

I apologise for not being clear on the facts. Our current house has wood floors. Thank you for your advice. I am happy I asked, but sorry I posted so many pics. Next time I will do better!

I agree not to cut the rug. Sell it, or use it in another room.

An important tip- if you decide to roll up the rug and not use it, please secrete a moth cake or moth balls in it in the middle and both ends and refresh them every so often. You can put them in a mesh bag so they do not directly contact the rug. Otherwise you will be horrified when you unroll the rug and find you have nothing left. Ideally you should unroll it and and hang it up somewhere and beat it. Yes, you heard right. Old- fashioned carpet beater on the wrong side to loosen any dust or eggs. But if you can’t do that, for sure, the moth balls.

Sell it. Someone out there wants that beautiful big rug.

Thanks again everyone!