Persian rugs come under the category of Oriental rugs and are considered to be the finest type of handmade rugs for sale available in the market.
Persian rug weaving is an age-old art and these exquisite carpets are being crafted by master weavers since centuries. From their materials to the weaving techniques used and the design patterns created, Persian rugs for sale are in a league of their own.
About Handmade Persian Rugs for Sale
Many times, the terms Persian and Oriental rugs are used interchangeably, but that’s incorrect. Persian rugs are the carpets crafted in Persia (Iran), whereas the term Oriental rugs covers rugs made anywhere in the Asian continent, mainly in countries located in the central or southern Asian regions.
In other words, Oriental rugs include rugs made in Russia, Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Turkey, China, Egypt, Tibet, and Iran.
To put it simply, all Persian rugs can be referred to as Oriental rugs, but not all Oriental rugs are Persian.
Iranians or Persian rug weavers are considered to be the pioneers of the carpet weaving art that is now spread throughout the central and southern Asia. Persian rug weavers achieved perfection after years of experience in rug making. In Iran, rug weaving is not simply taught, it’s passed down from one generation to the next, and each generation works to keep the skills of their forefathers alive in today’s machine-run world.
The oldest dated Persian rug is considered to be around 2400-2500 years old. The fact that a rug this old has been preserved for so long tells one a lot about the exemplary quality and durability of Persian handmade rugs.
Persian rugs for sale are widely considered to be the highest quality of handmade rugs, and there are many valid reasons why.
Most importantly, the rugs woven by Persian craftsmen have a high knot density and are made using the ancient Persian weaving techniques. Owing to these two major features, the rugs turn out to be inexplicably long-lasting and strong.
Why Are Persian Rugs So Popular?
Did you know, a single Persian area rug can take more than a year to be crafted?
Now wonder these handmade rugs for sale are so expensive and highly sought after!
Here’s a list of reasons why Persian rugs are considered better in quality and appeal than most other Oriental rugs:
- Traditionally Appealing and Unique Patterns
- Exemplary Color Combinations
- High Quality Materials
- Ancient Weaving Techniques and High Knot Density
- Made From Scratch by Master Weavers
1. Traditionally Appealing and Unique Patterns
Carpets made in Iran feature intrinsically traditional design patterns. The patterns are infused with religious and cultural imagery and symbolism, hence creating a rug that doesn’t just look pretty, but also holds great meaning for the weavers.
Most commonly, Persian rugs feature a central medallion or two, with geometric motifs and a similar border. Some Persian rug types also feature an over all pattern, such as the Bokhara rugs. The patterns are mostly quite bold and dominating, except in some cases such as the Ziegler rugs have subtle floral patterns.
In any case, there is a significant difference between Persian rugs for sale and rugs from other categories of Oriental rugs. While the major differences lie in the weaving techniques and the knot per square inch density, you may be able to find Pakistani rugs that have a look similar to that of Persian rugs, such as the popular Pak-Persian rugs.
2. Exemplary Color Combinations
Classic reds, blues, greens, and natural shades of ivory are common in Persian handmade rugs. In the early days, the rugs were dyed using natural dyes and pigments made of plants and vegetables. Hence the dyes of Persian rugs sustained their original look for years on end. Also, when the colors faded, a uniformity remained in the rug, unlike the rugs made of synthetic dyes that faint dramatically.
The steadfastness of their colors is what added to the quality and durability of Persian rugs. Even today, rug buyers often ask sellers if the carpet is made using natural dyes or not.
3. High Quality Materials
Persian rugs are made using the finest quality wool, cotton and silk. The materials used in the making of ancient rugs were those available with ease to the weavers. Hence a rug’s place of origin really matters when it comes to the quality of materials used.
Handspun wool is commonly used in Persian rugs for sale. The rugs usually have a cotton foundation with a wool or silk pile. Some rugs also come with a wool foundation and a wool pile. The pile height of Persian rugs ranges from 8-18mm. the higher a rug’s pile is, the more velvety and soft would be its texture. But rugs with a high pile often need more care and maintenance as compared to their short pile counterparts.
4. Ancient Weaving Techniques and High Knot Density
As mentioned earlier, Persian weavers are considered to be the pioneers of rug weaving. That’s why, the weaving techniques used for Persian rug making are ancient and different from the weaving or knotting methods used by weavers from other parts of Asia. Some common knotting techniques used in Persian rugs include the Senneh or Persian knot and the Turkish or Ghordies knot. The Jufti knot is also used in specific regions of Iran, but this weaving technique is not that common.
The Persian flatweave rugs, also known as Kilims, are made following the slit weaving technique. These rugs don’t have a pile and can be used from both sides.
5. Made From Scratch by Master Weavers
The weavers of Persia are popular for their expertise and skills. Oftentimes, the art of weaving is passed down from one generation to the next, and it’s taught at a very young age. Practicing the art over and over again for years is what makes enhances the skills of Persian weavers.
In a Persian handmade rug, there is no room for even a single mistake, hence all the weavers are experts at what they do
So, are you ready to buy a Persian rug for sale? Make sure you buy one that’s authentic!
