Square Persian Rugs

What makes a Persian rug

A Persian rug is a rug that was knotted by hand in Iran. Its name usually reveals the city or region it comes from, and with it a great deal about its pattern, colours and knotting technique. A Tabriz differs from a Bidjar as clearly as two dialects of one language. Here you will find only square Persian rugs. The Persian Rugs category shows all sizes, and the square oriental rugs page shows Kilims and other origins.

Tabriz and Ardebil in the north-west

Tabriz is one of the knotting centres in Iran with the richest tradition. Tabriz rugs often show a medallion with flowers and tendrils; their fineness is given in Raj, in this selection mainly 40 and 50 Raj. From Ardebil, not far from the Caspian Sea, come rugs with a rather geometric design.

Bidjar and Hamadan in the west

Bidjar rugs come from Iranian Kurdistan. They are very densely and firmly knotted, lie heavily on the floor and are considered particularly hard-wearing. Alongside classic Bidjars, you will find variants from Takab, Bukan and Zanjan. Hamadan rugs from the province of the same name are village rugs with bold, often geometric patterns.

Nain, Ghom and Moud in the interior and the east

From Nain in the province of Isfahan come very fine rugs with a light ground, plenty of blue and knotted-in silk; their quality is designated 6La, 9La or 12La. Nain rugs form one of the largest groups alongside Tabriz and Bidjar. Ghom is known for silk rugs with a high knot density; among the Ghom rugs you will also find square silk Ghoms. In Khorasan in the east, Moud, Mashhad and Kashmar rugs are made, often with a medallion.

Fars and Kerman in the south

Abadeh and Kashkuli rugs from the province of Fars follow the tradition of the Ghashghai nomads and often show geometric patterns. Rafsanjan rugs from the province of Kerman complete the selection.

Frequently asked questions about square Persian rugs

Do all the rugs on this page come from Persia?

Yes. Every square rug in this selection was knotted by hand in Iran. The pile is made of new wool or Kurk wool, and some have silk worked into them.

Which side lengths are common?

Most pieces measure around 200 x 200 cm, followed by 250 x 250 cm. There are also smaller ones around 100 and 150 cm and large ones with side lengths of 300 cm and more.

How can I tell where a Persian rug comes from?

You will find the type, such as Tabriz 50 Raj or Nain 9La, in the name of each rug. To the trained eye, the pattern, colour palette, knot density and back also reveal the region.