Persian rugs are beautiful works of art. Finding the right one for your home requires careful research. We have compiled this guide to familiarize you with the different styles of Persian rugs, which are generally named after the cities they were first created in.
This list describes the most popular and remarkable styles. Notable others include Abadeh, Afshar, Ardebil, Bakhtiar, Baluch, Farahan, Ghashghai, Hamadan, Kerman, Klardasht, Koliai, Luri, Mahal, Malayer, Mashad, Moud, Nahavand, Nain, Qashqai, Shahsevan, and Sultanabad.
Bijar– These rugs always have a wool pile of medium height. Since the patterns of this rug style vary, Bijars are usually identified by their weight and tight structure. These rugs feature a double weft that makes them heavier and more durable. These rugs should not be folded, as this can damage the dense pile structure. A well-known Bijar design is the “Herati” or “fish pattern”. Click here to see images of Persian Bijar rugs on Wikipedia.
Gabbeh– These sleeping rugs have a thick, tightly woven pile that is quite simple in terms of pattern. Basic patterns might include decorative animals in bright colors using natural dyes like red and yellow. This is one of the less expensive styles of Persian rug. Click here to see images of a Persian Gabbeh on Wikipedia.
Heriz– These durable rugs use high-quality wool that is soft despite its toughness. A central medallion in a style similar to Tabriz is often offset by an otherwise geometric pattern. The designs are usually tribal and geometric in earthy tones. They feature a naturally-dyed color scheme that improves over time, making antique quite valuable. They are less likely to be made or found in small sizes. Click here to see images of a Persian Heriz on Wikipedia.
Isfahan– The piles of Isfahan rugs are woven of wool, silk, cotton, or a combination and feature a high knot count of up to 1,000 knots per square inch. The pile is low. These rugs feature traditional motifs such as central medallions or pictorial schemes, and the ones now being produced are likely to include pastel color palettes. Designs are typically floral. They are less likely to feature strong reds.
Isfahan became the new capital of Iran under Shah Abbas in the 16th century. The Shah’s unwavering support of the arts ushered in a Golden Era of creativity and inspired a new competition between the cities of Persia. Craftsmen submitted their best work to represent their city. Submissions included all kinds of handicrafts, including the finest rugs, jewelry, and ceramics. Shah Abbas even inspired his own rug design by the same name. Most commonly, the Shah Abbas design is featured in Isfahan rugs, but can also be found in Kashan, Mashad, and Nain rugs.
Kashan– Since the 17th century, Kashan rugs have been renowned for their beauty and quality. The wool used to make Kashan rugs is known as the best wool in Iran. They also incorporate silk into the designs. The knot count ranges from 100 to over 800 knots per square inch. Usually, these rugs have a central medallion and floral motifs known as garden design. Common colors include cream, red, navy blue, and pistachio green.
Kilim– Unlike pile carpets, Kilims are flat, tapestry-woven rugs. Due to the fact that they don’t have a pile, Kilim rugs are less durable than other rugs. They are likely to display tribal or geometric patterns. They are usually woven of wool and cotton. Kilims are generally cheaper than pile rugs. The meaning behind the motifs displayed ranges from fertility to protections, to luck, and happiness. Click here to see photos of Kilim rugs on Wikipedia.
Sarouk– Sarouk rugs are generally floral or curvilinear, although recently less traditional Sarouk rugs have been made with the American market in mind. These rugs are built on a cotton foundation with a wool pile of medium length. During the 1960s Sarouk carpets were made with high-quality wool and a fine weave that will last centuries with proper care. Collectible, older pieces have a very short pile of high-quality wool. Common colors include red, blue, orange, black, and cream.
Senneh– These thin, finely woven carpets are some of the most detailed and delicately woven Persian rugs. They are usually made of cotton and/or silk. These rugs typically feature a central medallion in the Herati style, as well as floral elements.
Shiraz– The rugs are woven on fixed looms by nomads, resulting in larger, coarser finished products. Cotton or wool composes the foundation and pile. The design includes a central medallion as well as geometric shapes like diamonds. These rugs sometimes depict nightingales as symbols of happiness.
Soumak– These decorative rugs often feature abstract geometric designs. Soumaks are flat weaves, but stronger and thicker than Kilims. Unlike Kilims, the back of a Soumak rug is not smooth. Patterns often include the eye, cross, hook, and diamonds.
Tabriz– One of the oldest Persian rug patterns, Tabriz rugs are often finely woven, with a high knot count (up to 2,500 knots per square inch) and wool foundation. They actually come in many patterns and quality levels though. Tabriz rugs can range from 30, 40, 50, 60, or even 70 Raj. Raj is a term used to refer to the knot count in Tabriz rugs specifically. They often show a central medallion, although other designs such as floral and Mahi (fish) displays are popular as well. Naturalistic detail is common. Jewel tones like bold reds and blues are favored.
Qum– Qum rugs are among the most expensive in the world and highly sought after by collectors. They are woven of fine silk and/or wool, with a dense pile. These rugs are quite decorative and often hung on walls. Floral patterns are most common, as well as pictorial scenes.
We hope you feel better prepared to make your next purchase. We carry a large selection of the styles of handmade Persian rugs mentioned in this article. If you are interested in learning more about the art of Persian rugs, please make an appointment to visit our gallery. We carry new, semi-antique, and antique Persian rugs as well as handmade rugs from around the world. Call 972-733-0400 to set an appointment.
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