Persian Rugs Guide - Everyone Should Know
- 29 June 2022
- 5 Min Read
- By Jaipur Rugs
Every home gets a touch of luxury when a Persian rug is added to its decor. Such is the beauty and charm associated with Persian rugs. It has been said that the Persian motifs used in Persian rugs were considered to ward off negative energy in the past.
Every home gets a touch of luxury when a Persian rug is added to its decor. Such is the beauty and charm associated with Persian rugs. It has been said that the Persian motifs used in Persian rugs were considered to ward off negative energy in the past. This is why; we see many interesting motifs and designs on Persian carpets.
What are Persian Rugs?
Persian rugs are sometimes known as Iranian carpets due to their origin in Iran. A Persian-style rug is a heavy textile made by the nomadic tribes in the villages and towns of Iran and used for decorating homes, selling in local markets, and exporting. Persian rugs are best known for their unique and one-of-a-kind designs and patterns and are both functional and well-designed. In Iran, the weaving of rugs and carpets is a very popular aspect of their culture. Persian rugs are known for their magnificent borders, colors, worn-out look, color variation, and unique motifs that call everybody’s attention. Persian rugs are desired by both common men and aristocrats. The art of "traditional skills of carpet weaving" belonging to the Fars Province and Kashan is a part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage, as declared in 2010.
Persian rugs are the most sought-after as they are symbolic of various cultural and traditional life of Iran. They are an important part of Iranian history and legacy and are a great symbol of royal assets.
The History Behind Persian Rugs and Carpets
Having its origin in Iran, the Persian rug dates back to the Persian Empire thousands of years back. While there are many countries that make and excel in making Persian rugs these days, the majority of Persian rugs are made in Iran. However, if the many reports available on the internet are anything to go by, making carpets and rugs in Iran originated some 2,500-odd years ago. Initially, Persian carpets and rugs were not for instilling some fashion sense or home décor purpose. Rather, it was used for the purpose of covering the floors of nomadic tribesmen in order to give them protection from harsh weather. Needless to say, the style and pattern of Persian rugs kept on changing over the years, keeping in mind the requirement of the times and fashion trends. The rug-making craft has been passed down from one generation to another over centuries. There have been many happenings of invasions and wars during this period. With the rise of international trade, the growth in style patterns and designs grew by leaps and bounds.
Persian carpets gained immense popularity during the 16th century, in Iran. Many exemplary Persian rugs are preserved in museums across the world. The Persian Safavid dynasty is often referred to as ‘The Golden Age of Persian Weaving’ and this period marked the support of royal families in establishing workshops for artisans that produced many finest carpets that became world famous. However, commerce and arts fully flourished in Persia during the reign of Shah Abbas (1587 - 1629) who encouraged exports and international trade. The carpet workshops built by him produced carpets that were made of exotic materials such as silk, with gold and silver threads. No wonder, Persian rugs became rich in embellishments.
Why Persian rugs are the best
Persian rugs are considered a treasure by many prominent people and décor enthusiasts across the world. While handmade carpets in Iran have become rare, the spurt in mass production has deeply hurt the carpet industry of handmade variety. It is the handmade carpet that sets itself apart from other industry-made carpets.
Types of Persian rugs
Persian carpets and rugs are woven textiles and come in many varieties such as Kilim, Soumak, Suzani, etc. Another popular category is the antique Persian rugs which were woven prior to the 1920s in Persia. Antique Persian rugs showcase innumerable rug patterns, colors, and styles that take inspiration from semi-nomadic tribes. They also show inspiration borrowed from the Safavid and Mughal empires.
Antique Persian Rugs
Antique rugs are a special category of Persian rugs. If you do not have a lot of experience in picking antique rugs, chances are you would be deceived into buying fake antique rugs. Antique rugs have a color that cannot be replicated by the new dyes. Antique rugs use quality materials and are very soft to the touch, the wool is lustrous and soft over time in comparison to rugs that are of current times. An antique Persian rug stands out among the latest rugs that are made in the industry.
What makes antique Persian rugs stand out is the fact that it is made of a full range of colors developed from natural dyes. These natural dyes give a rich appearance to Persian rugs. Antique Persian rugs demonstrate the distinctive artistic expression of its weavers who utilize colors and designs that showcase artistic depth. They also have a higher number of knots per square inch. The vintage Persian rug designs are so alluring that the eyes of the viewers trace over the carpets with ease and comfort. Some of the most popular design styles are floral, geometric, paisley, and traditional. Tribal motifs are also very eye-catching. The designs and color strike a balance and harmony which is rare or difficult to find in other rugs. The motifs used in traditional antique and vintage Persian rugs portray regional motifs and colors that are unlike others.
Antique Persian rugs are made by knotting that is central in city and town rugs, with a craftsmanship that is valued and revered.
Persian rugs in a gist
Persian rugs are a valuable possession and amplify the royalty of the owner and bring about a sense of sophistication in the surroundings. Usually, Persian rugs of the antique and vintage type do not need special maintenance and are durable. However, once in a while, dusting would help them retain their original style and coloring. If you wish to make your home turn into a décor hub accentuating traditional design, you should get Persian rugs. You can get some affordable Persian rugs in your kitty from a local shop or online, you can also check out Persian carpets for sale. Make sure to check the quality of the Persian rugs that you buy. Usually, in an authentic Persian rug, there are 120 knots per square inch. Some Persian rugs can hurt your budget; therefore, make sure that you pick a rug that best suits your design requirement and budget. While silk Persian rugs are the most expensive, you can go for wool Persian rugs as they are both readily available and cheaper in comparison to silk rugs.
Pic Credits
Jaipur rugs / Abil Dase
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