Iranian
IRAN (Persian Rugs)
Rug weaving is undoubtedly one of the most distinguished manifestations of Persian culture and art. In recent times Iranian carpets have come under fierce competition from other countries producing reproductions of the original Iranian designs as well as less expensive substitutes. Popular designs of this origin include:
Tabriz Rugs
- Floral designs are decorated around a large central medallion.
- This style is known for its formal, curvilinear appearance.
- The terrific precision and detailed designs of Tabriz rugs create a delicate appearance.
- Soft shades of blues, reds, greens and ivory commonly make up the color palette.
Heriz Rugs
- Commonly seen with a large central eight-edged medallion motif.
- Symmetrical knots are tied into thin, tight piles displaying a geometric pattern.
- Popular colors include soft earth and strong red tones.
Serapi Rugs
- This type is also known as antique Heriz.
- A central medallion motif is incorporated with a rectilinear weaving design.
- Subtle colors are often used. A lot of times deep variations of reds and reddish-browns are highlighted by blue tones used as a background.
Sultanabad Rugs
- Three common motifs characterize this style:
- Herati: a flower within a diamond bordered with curving leaves.
- Sarouk: emphasis of central medallions.
- Semovar: known for using recurring medallions.
- Dark reds and blues make up a background, as soft green, ivory, and gold are colors used to create contrast.
- Knots are most often asymmetrical.
Soumak Rugs
- The production of Soumaks is popular in both Iran and Turkey
- They are most commonly known for their flat weave and unique texture; characteristics that have proven exceptionally well for high traffic areas.
- This design uses a geometric pattern with tribal motifs.
- A style that can work well for contemporary, traditional and modern décor.
- Deep, dark, rich colors – dark red being the most popular – are generally selected as the colors used.
Gabbeh Rugs
- This type of tribal rug is frequently made with a storytelling purpose.
- With a thick pile and a low knot density, this design is usually geometric and symbolic in shape, style, and design.
- “Gabbeh” is translated from Farsi to mean “raw” or “natural” which is why color is organic in appearance. Similar hues are woven together giving the rug a rich texture.
