Persian Rugs – An Overview
Persian Rugs – An Overview
Persian rugs possess a rich history that spans thousands of years. In addition to
being valuable, they are incredibly beautiful & culturally significant items.
History & Cultural Significance Of Persian Rugs
Originally woven out of necessity in order to protect households against cold and
damp conditions, the inhabitants of ancient Persia soon became renowned for
their rug-weaving prowess and craftsmanship.
The techniques that the ancient Persians pioneered date back 2500 years, and are
still in use in Iran and its bordering regions today. These techniques have been
passed down through the generations. As such, Persian rugs serve as unique
cultural artefacts, reflecting not only the craftsmanship, but also various aspects
of the lives of the people that created them, and thus are utterly unique.
Persian rugs are typically woven by hand, and each different type is woven in a
unique and distinct manner, meaning that the various patterns, palettes and
weaves found in the different types of Persian rugs showcase each region’s skill.
5 Popular Persian Rug Styles
Heriz
Originating from Northwestern Iran, specifically the city and surrounding villages
of Tabriz. Often referred to as The Prince of Village Rugs, Heriz rugs are
distinguishable by their bold, geometric designs and use of rustic colour tones.
Navy, coral and ivory are the main colours associated with Heriz rugs. Furthermore,
Heriz rugs are usually no smaller than 300cm x 200cm.
Nain
Originating from the eponymous city located in the Isfahan province of Central
Iran, the increasingly popular Nain rugs are woven within the city itself, as well as
the villages that dot the surrounding landscape. They are coveted for their floral
designs and softer colour palettes, using shades of ivory, blues and pinks. Red is
also occasionally used, but red Nain rugs are not as common. Nain rugs are usually
made with a cotton foundation, with either a soft wool or silk pile. Most Nain rugs
have at least some silk detailing.
Kashan
Kashan is a city located between Isfahan and Tehran, the capital city of Iran.
Similarly to Nain rugs, Kashan rugs tend to feature floral designs. However, unlike
Nains, the use of reds is a distinguishable feature of Kashan rugs. Red, beige and
navy blue are the most prominent colours used. Silk is not commonly used in
Kashan rugs, unlike Nain rugs, which often incorporate silk in their design.
Qashqai
The Qashqai people are a nomadic, tribal people that migrate between the Isfahan
province to the south of Shiraz. They produce the finest tribal Persian rugs, which
are made solely from wool. Qashqai rugs are made from memory (as opposed to
following a guide or blueprint). Designs consist of things that the nomads
encounter on their travels. Qashqai colour palettes feature deep reds, indigo blue,
gold and yellow.
Afghan
Afghan rugs are woven by nomadic tribes that inhabit the regions between Eastern
Iran and Western Afghanistan, and are made using hand-spun wool and natural
dyes. Afghan rugs incorporate symbology that is significant to the tribe that has
woven it. These are representations of the weaver’s artistic expression and cultural
heritage. Afghan tribal rugs feature bold, deep colours and simple, symbolic
geometric patterns and medallions.
Determining The Value Of A Persian Rug
- The type of materials used. Wool, cotton and silk – occasionally, a combination
of the three – are used. Dyes also play a role in determining the value. Natural
dyes are occasionally used, and are made from materials such as madder,
indigo, sumac, oak, pomegranate and larkspur. - The time & skill requirements. It usually takes between 2 – 6 months to finalise a
single Persian rug, but it can take far longer (up to over a year) to complete a
rug.
One of the oldest known Persian rugs – the Pazyryk Persian Rug – was discovered
remarkably well-preserved, and dates back to the 3rd century BCE. Find out more
about the Pazyryk Rug here.
The most expensive Persian rug ever sold was sold at auction in 2013 for a price of
US$33.8 million! You can watch the exact moment the rug was sold here.
Meanings Of Colours & Symbols Commonly Found In Persian Rugs
There are a number of meanings associated with the colours and symbols
commonly used in Persian rugs.
Symbols
- Birds: Good fortune, power, protection, spirituality & faith.
- Amulets: Warding against evil.
- Tree of life: The pathway to heaven, truth, wisdom & understanding.
- Star: Spirituality, good fortune.
- Ram’s horn: Virility, strength.
- Comb: Cleanliness, rejuvenation.
Colours
- Red: Strength, courage, passion & luck.
- Yellow/Gold: Power, glory, royalty & opulence.
- Green: A sacred colour, representing renewal, hope & divinity.
- White/beige: Innocence & purity.
- Blue: Wisdom, spirituality, trust & peace.
- Orange: Devotion & loyalty.
- Brown: Nature & fertility.
In Conclusion
We hope this has demonstrated the extent of the variety found in Persian rugs.
This guide only provides a glimpse into the world of Persian rugs and carpets.
BK Carpets & Rugs provides high quality Persian & Oriental rugs, carpets & runners,
suitable for virtually any space. Browse our selection or get in touch with us
directly so that we can help spruce up your space with a tasteful & timeless unique
piece of culture & history.
