The art of creating vintage persian rugs is an ancient tradition that continues to be a valued part of the world’s decorative arts. It is a time-honored, highly illustrious craft that features an astounding variety of designs, motifs, and colors. Historians are able to decipher which region a rug was made in by identifying the specific symbols that appear in the design, just like in the case of antique paintings and furniture.

As a rule, all ancient Persian rugs were hand-knotted from natural materials, mainly wool and silk. Cotton, which was a more affordable option, was often used for the warps and wefts, but silk was reserved exclusively for works of exceptional quality. Natural dyes were also employed, and they were extracted from a wide range of raw materials, including madder roots, oak apples, onion, saffron, acorns, tanner’s sumach, and insect reds such as cochineal and carmine.

Level 1 High Collectibles
The one-of-a-kind masterpieces woven during this period are prized for their artistic virtuosity, fluid and subtly varied design, and sophisticated use of color nuance. They exemplify the fusion of traditional regional patterns and contemporary artistic creativity, and they are characterized by their unique beauty and exceptional chromatic harmony.

The best rugs from this period are those woven by city and village weavers, including the spectacularly finely knotted Qums, Kashan, and Laver Kirman pieces, as well as premier rugs from the villages of Heriz, Bakshaish, and South Persian Azerbaijan. Rugs from this period mark the high point of what’s known as the Second Golden Age of Persian Weaving, and they continue to inspire avid collectors worldwide.