If you’ve ever visited a carpet bazaar, you’ve surely been thrilled by the sight of a world of patterns, colors, and beauty. Seeing so much art and beauty in a two-by-three or three-by-four “frame” (or any other shape and size) might encourage anyone to buy a rug, whether for practical use or as a decorative item. In any case, there’s no doubt that Persian carpets are among the most popular in the world and enjoy significant fame and popularity. Join us in this article from Eligasht to get to know more about Iranian carpets.
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History of Persian Carpets
Carpet experts believe that the origin of carpets, carpet weaving, and the weaving of various types of rugs is Asia. Researchers say that Iran, Turkestan, and the Caucasus are the primary cradles of the art of carpet weaving. Some texts suggest that the art of carpet weaving existed long before the birth of Christ. The famous Greek poet and epic writer of the 7th century BC mentions a throne covered with a purple carpet. Other historians, poets, and writers have also noted in their writings that Iranians are accustomed to resting on very soft and delicate carpets. A simple review shows us that, in addition to Iran, carpet making and carpet weaving have been prevalent in countries such as Turkey, Spain, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, the Caucasus, Pakistan, India, Egypt, China, and even Romania and the Balkan Peninsula, and they have also been active in this field.
But ultimately, this art has been unique to Iranians, and Iranians were the first people to turn to carpet weaving, and their art is world-renowned in this regard. According to studies, the oldest existing carpet in the world is the Iranian Pazyryk carpet. This carpet was discovered in 1949 AD by a group of Russian archaeologists during excavations in the Altai region of Southern Siberia, in a valley of the same name, Pazyryk.
The history of carpets dates back to the fifth and sixth millennia BC in Central Asia. The Iranian Pazyryk carpet is considered the first and oldest hand-woven carpet in the world. Its weaving is attributed to the Achaemenid period. In the palace of Ctesiphon, there is a very famous carpet called Baharestan, which has great splendor and beauty and has been noted in Islamic literature and has been widely reflected. Due to the beauty, art, accuracy, and refinement that exists in carpet weaving, this art has always been appreciated, and today more attention is paid to its decorative aspect.
Popularity of Persian Carpets
One of the main reasons why persian carpets have received more attention and have more customers in the world is that they have more color variations compared to carpets produced by other countries, the quality of the materials used in them is better, a special art and elegance has been used in them, and the colors look vivid and natural, its patterns are attractive and have a special appeal that is pleasing to the eye for the viewer and buyer. All these factors have been effective in this matter and have made Iranian carpets have their own notoriety and popularity.
Characteristics of Persian Carpets
Regardless of location, carpets from different cities possess both similarities and differences. In some cases, they differ significantly due to the cultural differences between cities. These differences may include variations in weave, design, knot type, and wool quality. In some cases, even if two different carpet weavers create a carpet with the same design and apparent qualities, only a skilled carpet expert can distinguish between them, identifying it as a “two-handed” weave, which is considered a flaw in the art of carpet weaving.
Generally, for a high-quality carpet, the following characteristics should be considered:
- Twelve rows of knots in one “gereh-e zar’ (a traditional Persian unit of measurement)”
- Wool should be shorn from the sheep’s back, not removed with lime.
- Sheep should have grazed in mountainous and lush green regions.
- The color used should have a high degree of fastness (color stability).
The following factors should also be considered when buying a carpet:
- Differences in carpet designs
- Differences in size
- Use of natural dyes
- Harmony of colors in the carpet
Carpet Market in Iran
Carpet factories exist in most cities of Iran. However, due to available resources and facilities, some cities have a greater number of factories. Notable examples include Kashan and then Aran va Bidgol, which are known as the “capital of Iranian machine-made carpets.” These cities have over 700 active manufacturing units producing machine-made carpets. Other carpet-producing cities include Yazd, Mashhad, Delijan, Isfahan, and several others. Undoubtedly, Persian carpets have been renowned since ancient times and are appreciated, welcomed, and used by all countries worldwide. Iran has been a major exporter in this industry. Currently, forty percent of the country’s carpet exports are supplied by East Azerbaijan Province.
Tabriz carpets differ significantly from carpets made in other cities. The types of Tabriz carpet weaves include fine weave and coarse weave, and the difference in terms of design, quality, materials, and construction is quite distinct from carpets made in other cities, for example, there is a major difference compared to the designs of Isfahan carpets or Kerman carpets. Understanding carpets and their characteristics, aside from the specialized and professional aspects, is not very difficult and is easily achievable. A carpet buyer can learn a lot about its quality just by seeing and touching a rug or carpet. Carpets from each region of Iran differ from one another, depending on the climatic, geographical, and cultural conditions of that region.
Kashan Carpets
Kashan carpets are also finely woven and very delicate. In the past, bold colors with high contrast were used in weaving, but today, in response to changing consumer tastes, softer colors are preferred.
The pile height in this type of carpet is medium, and the most common pattern seen is decorative motifs. Another notable feature of Kashan carpets is the limited color palette, often including colors like ivory, fawn, gray, and brown.
Tabriz Carpets
One of the most popular carpets among tourists in Iran is the Tabriz carpet. The history of carpet weaving in this city dates back to the Safavid era. A significant characteristic of Tabriz carpets is their fine weave. Tabriz offers some of the finest carpets in the country.
The material used for weaving these carpets is silk or wool, and other characteristics include a short pile and high knot density.
The “saye roshan” (light and shade) technique is used in weaving this type of carpet, giving Tabriz carpets depth, which makes them highly desirable.
Qom Carpets
Another city that has attracted the attention of carpet tourists in Iran with its beautiful and unique handwoven carpets is Qom. In the past, carpet weaving in this city was limited to nomads and villagers, but over time, people living in the city also took up this art.
Previously, coarse and thick yarns were used for weaving carpets, but today, to enhance the carpet’s beauty, fine and regular yarns are used. The delicacy used in this type of carpet is so high that it may lead one to doubt whether it is a machine-made carpet.
Today, more than 40 types of colors are used in the production of Qom carpets, and the patterns include designs such as Shah Abbasi medallions, hunting grounds, mihrabs (prayer niches), and stripes (moharramat).
Kerman Rug
Kerman is recognized as one of the oldest centers for carpet weaving in Iran, with a rich history spanning around 500 years. Kerman rugs are crafted using wool threads, and they often feature darker hues. These carpets are particularly known for their unique portrait (face) designs.
Isfahan Carpet
As previously noted, the art of carpet weaving flourished during the Safavid era, making Isfahan, the capital of that period, a hub for exquisite Iranian carpets. The rugs from Isfahan are crafted with bright and lively threads.
You can easily identify Isfahan carpets by their balanced and symmetrical patterns. Notable designs featured in these rugs include arabesque (Islimi), ancient motifs, and more.
Mashhad Rug
Mashhad rugs are renowned for their exquisite delicacy. These carpets are woven using a combination of wool and cotton threads.
The color palette of Mashhad carpets typically includes shades of red, green, cream, maroon, and navy blue. They are distinguished by their medallion and corner motifs, Herati patterns, and the beautiful Shah Abbasi flower designs.
Other kinds of Persian Carpets
Gabbeh
Gabbeh is a unique handwoven carpet from Iran, known for its thicker texture and coarser weave compared to other Iranian carpets. This style is characterized by the use of natural wool yarn and plant-based dyes in its creation.
Jajim
Jajim is recognized as a flat weave textile that is woven to considerable lengths but is narrow in width. It has a finer and more delicate texture than kilim. Jajim is produced in various regions, with each locality assigning it a distinct name.
Kilim
Kilim refers to a handwoven rug that lacks pile (flatweave) and is primarily made from natural wool. These rugs often feature geometric patterns like diamonds, hexagons, quadrilaterals, and triangles, with occasional depictions of natural and animal forms. The process of weaving a kilim includes steps such as warping, securing the heddle rod, fastening the warps, and chain stitching. Kilims can be categorized into three types based on their weaving technique: plain weave, embossed (raised design), and verni.
Caring and appreciation of Iranian Carpet
A Persian carpet is an investment, both financially and emotionally. Taking proper care of it ensures its longevity and preserves its beauty for generations to come. Regular vacuuming, professional cleaning, and occasional rotation are essential to prevent wear and fading. Avoiding direct sunlight and heavy foot traffic in highly sensitive areas will also contribute to its lifespan.
Final words
The art and craft of Persian carpets represent a profound connection between tradition, artistry, and the natural world. They are woven tales of cultural heritage, waiting to be appreciated and cherished for their beauty, craftsmanship, and timeless appeal. By understanding the intricate processes involved in their creation, we can gain a deeper appreciation for these magnificent works of art and the skilled artisans who bring them to life.
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FAQ
What is the history of Persian Carpets?
The history of Persian carpets dates back over 2,500 years. Fragmentary evidence suggests weaving existed in Persia as early as 500 BC. They evolved from simple floor coverings to highly intricate works of art, adorning palaces and becoming a symbol of Persian culture and craftsmanship. The Safavid dynasty (16th-18th centuries) is often considered the golden age of Persian carpet weaving.
Are Persian carpets all the same style?
No, Persian carpets exhibit a wide range of styles, designs, and colors. Each region of Iran has its unique characteristics, patterns, and techniques. Some famous styles include Kashan, Isfahan, Qum, Tabriz, and Heriz, each with distinctive features.
What materials are used to make Persian carpets?
The primary materials are: * Wool: From sheep, used for the pile (the knotted surface). * Silk: Used for the pile in finer, more luxurious carpets. Sometimes used for the warp and weft as well. * Cotton: Commonly used for the warp (the vertical threads) and weft (the horizontal threads) that form the foundation of the carpet. * Natural Dyes: Traditionally, Persian carpets are dyed using natural dyes derived from plants, insects, and minerals.