Discover the history of Persian rugs, renowned for their craftsmanship and cultural significance. In this article, learn to identify these artistic floor coverings by examining materials, weaving techniques, and patterns.
A short history of Persian Rugs:
The art of carpet weaving in Persia (modern-day Iran) dates to ancient times. The earliest known example, the Pazyryk Carpet, is from the 5th century BCE, approximately 2500 years old! Following this, the Islamic Golden Age (7th to 13th centuries) introduced geometric and floral designs.
The Safavid Dynasty (1501-1736) marked the golden age of Persian carpets, with royal workshops and extensive exports, particularly from Isfahan. The Qajar Dynasty (1789-1925) saw a revival and incorporation of European influences. Today, Persian rugs are valued for their craftsmanship and cultural significance and can be used in religious and ceremonial contexts, as well as a beautiful decorative floor covering in one’s home.
Yes, Persian rugs are so much more than just a floor covering in your home, they are simply works of art. Let’s dive into how to properly recognize the beauty!
How to identify Persian rugs?
Identifying antique Persian rugs requires a combination of knowledge about materials, weaving techniques, and patterns, and to be able to spot the natural signs of age. Some key factors to consider follows:
Material quality
Antique Persian rugs are most often made from high-quality wool, and if you touch the wool by itself, you can feel it has a luster because of the natural lanolin, which helps preserve it. Other antique Persian rugs are made from silk - either solely silk or a combination with wool. Lastly, if cotton is used it is only used for the foundation (warp and weft) of the rug, but more often it is either wool or silk that makes up the foundation.
Weaving Technique
The most used technique is Senneh knot, which is an asymmetrical weaving technique. What indicates quality is the density of the knots, and higher density often means fine craftsmanship. Another knot that’s often used is the Turkish knot (also known as the Ghiordes or symmetric knot).
When inspecting the rug look for irregularities in the rug, which can be a good thing - because it often means it’s handwoven. If it’s too perfect and uniform it most likely is machine-made. Another detail to look for in the fringes: if it’s sown on separately, it’s not an original Persian. A handwoven rug has fringes that are integral to the rug’s construction!
Antique rugs often have a supple feel and are more flexible than newer rugs due to the aging of the fibers.
Patterns and Designs
Persian rugs feature a wide variety of designs, often inspired by nature, geometry, and Islamic art. Look for traditional Persian motifs such as medallions, floral patterns, geometric designs, and hunting scenes, to name a few. Each region in Persia (modern-day Iran) has distinctive patterns, such as the more curved designs of Isfahan or the bold, geometric patterns of Heriz. Each region in Iran has its distinctive style and pattern!
Antique Persian rugs typically use natural dyes derived from plants, insects, and minerals. These dyes tend to have a more subdued, uneven color compared to synthetic dyes. Over time, natural dyes often develop a luster that adds depth to the colors. As you’re learning; a too-perfect rug is not usually man-made nor antique!
Origin
Get familiarized with the specific characteristics of rugs from different Persian regions (Tabriz, Kashan, Isfahan, Heriz, etc.), and see any documentation or history that comes with the rug to help provide clues of its age.
- Tabriz: Known for elaborate designs and high knot density.
- Isfahan: Famous for its fine weaving and detailed floral patterns.
- Kashan: Known for high-quality wool and very intricate designs.
- Heriz: Characterized by bold geometric patterns and durable construction.
- Sultanabad: Known for stylized flower patterns and their beautiful dyes.
Signs of Age
Naturally, a genuine antique rug will show signs of age! Some of the more common natural aging that happens even on a high-quality tug is fading colors, fraying edges, and certain more worn areas of the carpet. Obviously, you should never purchase a rug that is in bad condition, but weigh the pros and cons, and make sure the wear and tear is subtle since you don’t want it to take away from the beauty of the rug. But often, in older rugs, you will see the light gloss happening on the fabric from the years of cleaning. If you fall in love with a rug that has been properly loved throughout the years, skillful repairs can be made to preserve the value of the rug. But you must make sure that it is done right, since a poor repair by someone non-experienced or specialized, can unfortunately decrease the value, or simply ruin it.
By paying close attention to these aspects, you can better identify and appreciate the unique qualities of antique Persian rugs. However, if you believe a rug is antique and are considering purchasing it for your collection, we recommend you get it properly evaluated by a professional, such as a dealer specializing in antique rugs. The chances are that they can provide a detailed analysis of the age, and origin and tell you the actual value of the rug.
Antique Persian Rugs in Your Home:
SULTANABAD WEST PERSIA LATE 19TH CENTURY
This traditional hand-woven Persian rug has a refined artichoke green field with a rust-red border. The colors are distinctive, but also subtle enough to not take up too much of a room. This is an elegant floor covering that you can place in any room and make your space look elegant and well curated.
FEREGHAN WEST PERSIA EARLY 20TH CENTURY
This is an early 20th century traditional hand-woven Fereghan rug from West Persia! It has a shaded navy all over a field of palmette rows portraying floral and vine motifs and would be beautiful as a living room rug. The cooler, blue tones of the rug would look stunning with an off-white textured, large couch group. To compliment some of the pink hues of the motifs, perhaps go for pink details, such as a large antique rose-colored vase on the coffee table. Other more “poppy” colors that work great with blue are green and yellow - so think about that when accessorizing the room!
ERAPI NORTH WEST PERSIA LATE 19TH CENTURY
Looking for a big area rug? This traditional hand-woven Persian Serapi rug has an indigo field with an angled stylized floral motif enclosing a grand medallion in the center. A hand-knotted masterpiece by itself, this carpet will be the conversation point of the room. When decorating a space and choosing a darker style of rug keep in mind to have the walls light and bright. A darker rug will add depth to a room, especially if the floor is a lighter color than the rug. This will anchor the room and create a sense of more homey coziness.
ZIEGLER SULTANABAD WEST PERSIA LATE 19TH CENTURY
Reading this article, can you spot how this is an antique rug? If you look closely at the rug you will notice a difference in gloss and color slightly fading on certain parts of the rug. This is since it’s been well-loved throughout the years. Finding a rug as old as this, from the late 19th century, will often have some natural aging. This hand-woven masterpiece is a Persian Ziegler Sultanabad from West Persia, with a shaded blue field of dense interlocking floral vine, with a central column of arabesque medallion motifs. The intricate design is beautiful. Think neutral colors when decorating, and maybe some accent details of red to pick up from the medallion motif.