Good old rug, looks like it has a lot of potential. IMO, I think we are going to see a serious uptick in the collector market and interest for antique Chinese rugs - so yes, I think it would be well advised to bring this to several people and get their opinion on restoration. The biggest problem with antique rugs is emulating the patina and nature of the wool - the thread count, spin, ply, and dyes. These are the things a true restorer will have the patience, time and expertise to follow through with. Ask whoever restores it if they wouldn't mind showing you a small area first - see how the fill-in compares to the rest of the rug. Be sure to look at the light and dark sides. Don't judge the wool from the yarn bunched up - you have to see it in the rug.
I agree with Sharafi that there is a great deal of difficulty emulating the look of the antique Chinese rugs - if the carpet had a more dense design or color variation I don't think it would be as much of concern. The problem with a carpet such as this is virtually the whole rug is one solid color. Good Luck