Persian rugs are typically categorized into three main groups: city, village, and tribal. Each type is named after the city, village, or tribe where it was produced.
Looking for Authentic Persian Rugs?
See our range of Different Types of Persian Rugs now!
City Rugs
City rugs are known for their exceptional quality and are crafted by master weavers in Iran. These weavers are mostly men and rug-making is their full-time career. City rugs often feature elaborate designs with a wide range of colors and complicated borders. The weavers of city rugs are considered "master weavers" and some even sign their work, elevating the rugs to the level of fine art. Examples of renowned city rugs include Kashan, Tabriz, and Nain.
Village Rugs
Village rugs are usually of higher quality than tribal rugs, with a more regular and consistent shape. This is because village rugs are woven on permanently-pitched looms, allowing for greater stability and precision. Village weavers incorporate a wider variety of colors into their designs compared to tribal rugs. Popular village rug varieties include Heriz, Hamadan, and Abadeh.
Tribal Rugs
Tribal rugs are crafted by nomadic tribes-people and feature more primitive, rustic designs with limited colors, often just reds and blues. The irregular shape of tribal rugs is due to the weavers' nomadic lifestyle. They weave on portable ground or horizontal looms that are constantly being set up and taken down as the tribes move. Examples of tribal rugs include Gabbeh, Bakhtiari, and Balouchi.
Regardless of their origin, all Persian rugs share a rich cultural heritage and artistry that has captivated rug enthusiasts for centuries. From the elaborate city rugs to the charming tribal designs, each type offers unique aesthetic appeal and investment potential.
Types of Persian Rugs
| Rug Type | Region | Design Features | Knot Density (KPSI) | Material |
| Nain | Central Iran | Intricate floral and medallion designs with a light color palette | 300-700 | Silk and wool |
| Isfahan | Central Iran | Fine, detailed floral or medallion designs | 600+ | Silk and wool combination |
| Tabriz | Northwest Iran | Intricate floral designs with medallion patterns | 400-700 | Wool and silk blend |
| Qum | Central Iran | Extremely fine silk rugs with floral designs, often used as wall hangings | 600-1000 | Pure silk |
| Kashan | Central Iran | Luxurious silk with deep reds and blues; floral motifs and medallions | 200-600 | Silk and wool |
| Mashad | Northeast Iran | Large rugs with floral patterns in deep reds and blues | 150-500 | Wool |
| Moud | Northeastern Iran | Floral and garden designs; intricate patterns with a variety of colors | 200-600 | Wool and silk |
| Senneh | Western Iran | Known for fine geometric and curvilinear designs | 200-400 | Wool |
| Abadeh | Central Iran | Geometric patterns, often featuring red and blue color schemes | 100-300 | Wool |
| Ardebil | Northwestern Iran | Geometric patterns, famous for the 'Ardebil' design with medallions | 200-400 | Wool |
| Bidjar | Western Iran | Known as "Iron Rugs" for their durability, featuring dense weaves and geometric patterns | 200-500 | Wool |
| Hamadan | Western Iran | Bold geometric patterns, coarser weave, and known for durability | 50-300 | Wool |
| Heriz | Northwest Iran | Bold geometric designs; highly durable, suitable for high-traffic areas | 50-200 | Coarse wool |
| Kerman | Southeastern Iran | Artistic, elaborate floral patterns; often large-sized rugs | 150-500 | Soft wool |
| Afshar | Southwestern Iran | Bold geometric designs with deep reds, indigos, and ivory | 100-300 | Wool |
| Bakhtiari | Southwestern Iran | Floral and geometric designs, often with a lattice or garden motif | 100-300 | Wool |
| Baluch | Eastern Iran | Small rugs with geometric and animal designs | 50-200 | Wool and goat hair |
| Gabbeh | Southern Iran | Simple, bold designs, often featuring animals or abstract patterns | 60-150 | Coarse wool |
| Qashqai | Southwestern Iran | Tribal designs with bold geometric and animal motifs | 100-250 | Wool |
City Rugs
Nain Rugs
Hailing from the city of Nain (central Iran, near the Dasht-e Kavir desert), Nain rugs are synonymous with formal luxury. They are known for their incredibly high knot densities and elegant floral designs, often featuring a muted color palette that exudes sophistication.
Location: Nain, Iran (central Iran, located near the Dasht-e Kavir desert)
Designs: Elegant florals, central medallions
Style: Formal, refined, muted colors
Knot Density: Extremely high (220,000 - 1,000,000 knots per sq m)
Pile Thickness: 2 to 5 mm
Colors: Muted tones (blues, reds, beiges)
Knot Type: Senneh (Persian)
Isfahan Rugs
Woven in the heart of Iran, Isfahan (central Iran), Isfahan rugs are renowned for their dazzling intricate designs and exceptionally high knot densities. Isfahan rugs have a long history and are beautiful examples of Persian rug making.
Location: Isfahan, Iran
Designs: Rich florals, central medallions, calligraphy (sometimes)
Style: Grand, intricate, dazzling colors
Knot Density: Very high (600,000 - 1,000,000 knots per sq m)
Pile Thickness: 3 - 6 mm
Colors: Wide range (blues, greens, reds, gold)
Knot Type: Senneh (Persian)
Tabriz Rugs
Crafted in the bustling metropolis of Tabriz (northwestern Iran), Tabriz rugs offer a unique blend of durability and bold aesthetics. Tabriz Rugs come in a wider variety of designs, featuring geometric patterns and eye-catching medallions, often woven with a rich and varied color palette.
Location: Tabriz, Iran
Designs: Geometric patterns, bold medallions, hunting scenes (sometimes)
Style: Elegant, bold, varied colors
Knot Density: High (160,000 - 600,000 knots per sq m)
Pile Thickness: 2 to 6 millimeters (mm
Colors: Rich and varied
Knot Type: Senneh (Persian)
Qum Rugs
Woven in the holy city of Qom (also spelled Ghom), located in central Iran south of Tehran, Qum rugs are known for their luxurious quality, intricate designs, and use of silk. Qum Rugs are a relatively recent addition to the pantheon of famous Persian rugs but have gained immense popularity due to their exquisite craftsmanship.
Location: Qom (Ghom), Iran (central Iran)
Designs: Intricate designs featuring floral motifs, curvilinear patterns, landscapes, historical scenes, or medallions. Sizes are typically petite to medium.
Style: Luxurious, detailed craftsmanship can be traditional or modern in design aesthetic.
Knot Density: High (200,000 - 500,000 knots per sq m) contributing to intricate details.
Pile Thickness: 3 - 8 mm
Colors: Wide range, often featuring jewel tones like red, blue, and ivory.
Knot Type: Senneh knot (Persian knot)
Village Rugs
Abadeh Rugs
Nestled between the famed rug-making cities of Isfahan and Shiraz in southern Iran, Abadeh produces rugs known for their durability and practicality. While not boasting the extremely high knot densities of some other Persian rugs, Abadeh rugs offer a beautiful and functional option for everyday use.
Location: Abadeh, Iran (southern Iran, between Isfahan and Shiraz)
Designs: Often feature all-over geometric patterns with floral and vase motifs, or a central medallion with a classic Herati diamond design.
Style: Practical and durable, with a range of designs that can complement various aesthetics.
Knot Density: 60,000 to 100,000 knots per sq m.
Pile Thickness: 2 - 5 mm
Colors: Common colors include red, terracotta, blue, green, and ivory.
Knot Type: Hand-knotted using the symmetrical Turkish knot.
Ardebil Rugs
Woven in the city of Ardebil, located in northwestern Iran near the Caspian Sea, Ardebil rugs possess a distinct character. Influenced by neighboring Caucasian rug-making traditions, they offer a beautiful and slightly more affordable alternative to some other high-density Persian varieties.
Location: Ardebil, Iran (northwestern Iran, Caspian Sea region)
Designs: Typically showcase geometric patterns inspired by Caucasian styles, including Shirvan, Karabagh, and Gendje.
Style: Known for their well-done geometric motifs, offering a balance between aesthetics and affordability.
Knot Density: 40,000 to 80,000 knots per sq m.
Pile Thickness: 2 - 4 mm
Colors: Often uses natural dyes, resulting in a range of earthy tones, including reds, blues, greens, and ivory.
Knot Type: Typically hand-knotted using the asymmetrical Persian knot.
Bidjar Rugs
Hailing from the mountainous city of Bidjar in northwestern Iran, Bidjar rugs are renowned for their unmatched durability and intricate designs in Persian Rugs. Often called the "Iron Rugs of Persia," they are prized for their exceptional quality and ability to withstand generations of use.
Location: Bidjar, Iran (northwestern Iran, mountainous region)
Designs: Bidjar rugs typically feature a central medallion surrounded by geometric or floral motifs. Bidjar Rugs are known for their precise patterns and use of bold contrasting colors.
Style: Rugged elegance and formality. The intricate designs and focus on durability create a timeless and sophisticated look.
Knot Density: Extremely high, ranging from 300,000 to 600,000 knots per sq m, contributing to the rug's exceptional strength and intricate details.
Pile Thickness: 5 - 10 mm
Colors: Traditionally known for bold colors like red, blue, and cream, although variations exist.
Knot Type: Hand-knotted using the traditional Turkish knot.
Hamadan Rugs:
Woven in the ancient city of Hamadan, located in western Iran, Hamadan rugs offer a beautiful blend of quality and affordability. They contain a rich history and come in a wide variety of styles, making them a versatile choice for many tastes.
Location: Hamadan, Iran (western Iran)
Designs: Hamadan rugs showcase a diverse range of designs, influenced by surrounding regions. You might find geometric patterns, medallions, floral elements, or even tribal motifs.
Style: The overall style can vary from town-based elegance to a more tribal aesthetic. They offer a good balance between intricate designs and affordability.
Knot Density: 40,000 knots per sq m to a denser 100,000 knots per sq m.
Pile Thickness: 2 - 6 mm
Colors: Traditionally, Hamadan rugs use natural dyes, resulting in a range of warm and earthy tones, including reds, blues, greens, and browns.
Knot Type: Most Hamadan rugs are hand-knotted using the Turkish knot, known for their strength and durability.
Heriz Rugs
Woven in the town of Heris (also spelled Heriz) in northwestern Iran, Heriz rugs are known for their bold geometric patterns, vibrant colors, and exceptional durability. They are prized for their distinctive character and ability to add a touch of timeless elegance to any space.
Location: Heris (Heriz), Iran (northwestern Iran)
Designs: Heriz rugs are known for their large central medallions, often geometric or rhomboid in shape, surrounded by intricate floral and geometric motifs.
Style: The large medallions and bold patterns create a formal and visually striking look.
Knot Density: 160,000 to 400,000 knots per sq m.
Pile Thickness: 2 - 5 mm
Colors: They often feature shades of red, blue, and ivory, with the use of natural dyes.
Knot Type: The most common knot used in Heriz rugs is the Senneh knot (also known as the Persian knot).
Kerman Rugs:
Woven in the southeastern Iranian city of Kerman, Kerman rugs are renowned for their elegance, intricate designs, and high-quality materials. Once considered the peak of Persian rug production, they remain a highly sought-after choice for those who appreciate timeless beauty and exquisite craftsmanship.
Location: Kerman, Iran (southeastern Iran)
Designs: Kerman rugs showcase a captivating blend of floral and geometric motifs. They often feature elaborate central medallions, detailed floral borders, and curvilinear designs.
Style: Kerman rugs exude a sense of elegance and sophistication. The use of soft colors and intricate patterns creates a refined and timeless look.
Knot Density: from 120,000 to 800,000 knots per sq m.
Pile Thickness: 2 - 6 mm
Colors: Soft pastels, deep blues, and rich reds are commonly used.
Knot Type: asymmetrical tight Persian knot
Kashan Rugs
Hailing from the city of Kashan, located in central Iran, Kashan rugs are synonymous with luxury and unparalleled craftsmanship. Renowned for their exceptional quality, intricate designs, and muted color palettes, they are prized possessions for collectors and rug enthusiasts worldwide.
Location: Kashan, Iran (central Iran)
Designs: central medallion surrounded by a field of detailed floral patterns. Arabesque and curvilinear motifs are common.
Style: The overall style of Kashan rugs can be described as formal and refined. The intricate designs and muted color palettes.
Knot Density: 220,000 knots per square meter (around 350 knots per square inch) to a staggering 1,000,000 knots per square meter (over 1500 knots per square inch).
Pile Thickness: 2 - 5 mm
Colors: they often feature a base of beige or ivory with accents of blues, greens, and reds.
Knot Type: Senneh knot, also known as the Persian knot.
Mashad Rugs
Woven in the holy city of Mashhad, located in northeastern Iran, Mashad rugs are known for their large size, bold designs, and focus on durability. They are a popular choice for those seeking a beautiful and functional rug that can withstand everyday use.
Location: Mashhad, Iran (northeastern Iran)
Designs: Mashad rugs typically feature a central medallion surrounded by intricate floral patterns. Birds and animals are also sometimes incorporated into the design.
Style: Mashad rugs exude a sense of tradition and formality. The large size, bold medallions, and use of saturated colors.
Knot Density: 120,000 knots per sq m to a denser 840,000 knots per sq m.
Pile Thickness: 2 - 6 mm
Colors: Deep crimson red is a signature color, often balanced with tones of sky and navy blue.
Knot Type: Senneh knot (also known as the Persian knot).
Moud Rugs
Woven in the town of Moud, located south of Mashad and Birjan in northeastern Iran, Moud rugs are known for their characteristic designs and good quality construction. They offer a beautiful and slightly more affordable alternative to some other high-density Persian rugs.
Location: Moud, Iran (northeastern Iran, south of Mashad and Birjan)
Designs: Moud rugs are known for two distinct design styles:
Moud Mahi: Featuring a central medallion, often star or hexagon shaped, with a beige base accented by light reds or blues. The Herati pattern is a common design element.
Moud Garden: Showcasing a curvilinear garden motif within rectangular borders, reminiscent of Bakhtiari rugs.
Style: Moud rugs offer a balance between classic elegance and a touch of garden-inspired charm. The intricate patterns and focus on durability create a timeless look.
Knot Density: 160,000 to 220,000 knots per sq m.
Pile Thickness: 2 - 5 mm
Colors: Moud rugs typically feature muted color palettes. Beige or ivory often forms the base, with accents of blues, greens, and reds.
Knot Type: The most common knot used in Moud rugs is the Senneh knot.
Senneh Rugs
Senneh rugs are woven in the city of Sanandaj, formerly known as Senneh.
Location: Sanandaj, Iran (western Iran, Kurdistan province)
Designs: They often feature a central medallion surrounded by a field of detailed floral patterns. Arabesque and curvilinear motifs are common.
Style: The overall style of Senneh rugs can be described as formal and refined. The intricate designs and muted color palettes.
Knot Density: 220,000 to well over 1 million knots per sq m.
Pile Thickness: 2 - 5 mm
Colors: Senneh rugs are known for their elegant color palettes. While variations exist, they often feature a base of beige or ivory with accents of blues, greens, and reds.
Knot Type: Senneh knot known as (Persian knot).
Tribal Rugs:
Afshar Rugs:
Woven by the semi-nomadic Afshar tribe, primarily concentrated around Kerman in southeastern Iran, Afshar rugs are known for their geometric patterns, bold colors, and excellent quality. They offer a unique blend of tribal aesthetics and durability, making them a popular choice for those seeking a distinctive and practical rug.
Location: Woven by the Afshar tribe, primarily near Kerman, Iran (southeastern Iran)
Designs: Afshar rugs typically feature geometric patterns, often incorporating squares, octagons, and boteh motifs. They may also feature central medallions with a focus on bold, contrasting colors.
Style: The geometric patterns and bold colors create a visually striking look that complements various design styles.
Knot Density: 150,000 to 250,000 knots per sq m.
Pile Thickness: 3 - 6 mm
Colors: Deep reds and blues are commonly used, along with accents of green, yellow, and ivory.
Knot Type: The most common knot used in Afshar rugs is the Senneh knot.
Bakhtiari Rugs
Woven by the Bakhtiari nomads in the Zagros Mountains of southwestern Iran, Bakhtiari rugs are renowned for their durability, bold designs, and connection to a rich nomadic heritage. They offer a unique blend of practicality and artistic expression, making them a popular choice for those seeking a rug with both aesthetic appeal and functionality.
Location: Woven by the Bakhtiari nomads in the Zagros Mountains, southwestern Iran
Designs: Bakhtiari rugs are known for their distinctive "panelled garden" designs. The field of the rug is often divided into geometric compartments or panels, each featuring contrasting patterns and motifs. Floral and geometric elements are common, along with depictions of animals and birds.
Style: Bakhtiari rugs exude a sense of tribal charm and functionality along with bold designs.
Knot Density: 60,000 knots per sq m to a denser 150,000 knots per sq m.
Pile Thickness: 2 - 6 mm
Colors: Dominant colors include red, blues, and greens.
Knot Type: The most common knot used in Bakhtiari rugs is the Senneh knot.
Baluch Rugs
Woven by the Baluch people, a nomadic tribe residing in parts of Iran, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, Baluch rugs are known for their unique characteristics and enduring charm. They offer a glimpse into the artistic traditions of a nomadic way of life, showcasing bold geometric patterns, natural dyes, and a focus on functionality.
Location: Woven by the Baluch people in Iran, Pakistan, and Afghanistan (border regions)
Designs: Baluch rugs typically feature bold geometric patterns, often incorporating squares, triangles, hexagons, and various geometric motifs. They are less common with floral designs or central medallions.
Style: Baluch rugs exude a sense of tribal simplicity and functionality. The geometric patterns and use of natural dyes.
Knot Density: 40,000 to 100,000 knots per sq m.
Pile Thickness: 2 - 5 mm
Colors: Baluch rugs traditionally utilize natural dyes, resulting in a range of earthy and robust colors. Deep reds, browns, blues, and greens are commonly used, with occasional accents of ivory or yellow.
Knot Type: The most common knot used in Baluch rugs is the asymmetrical knot, sometimes referred to as the Senneh knot variation.
Gabbeh Rugs
Woven by the nomadic Qashqai and Luri tribes of southwestern Iran, Gabbeh rugs are known for their playful designs, bold colors, and relatively coarse weave. Unlike many intricately detailed Persian rugs, Gabbehs celebrate a more spontaneous and individualistic artistic expression.
Location: Woven by Qashqai and Luri tribes in southwestern Iran
Designs: Gabbeh rugs typically feature playful and abstract designs. Geometric shapes, stylized animals or human figures, and interpretations of nature are common motifs. The overall aesthetic is one of artistic freedom and a departure from strict symmetry.
Style: Gabbeh rugs exude a sense of relaxed charm and individuality. The bold, colorful designs and looser weave.
Knot Density: 40,000 to 100,000 knots per sq m.
Pile Thickness: 8 - 15+ mm
Colors: Reds, browns, greens, and blues are commonly used, with accents of ivory or yellow adding a touch of brightness.
Knot Type: The most common knot used in Gabbeh rugs is the asymmetrical knot, sometimes referred to as the Senneh knot variation.
Qashqai Rugs
Woven by the Qashqai tribe, one of the largest nomadic groups in Iran, Qashqai rugs are known for their vibrant colors, bold geometric patterns, and enduring charm. They offer a window into the artistic traditions of a nomadic way of life, showcasing a unique blend of practicality and artistic expression.
Location: Woven by the Qashqai tribe in southwestern Iran, along the Zagros Mountains
Designs: feature a captivating combination of geometric and tribal motifs. Medallion designs are common, with variations including central diamond shapes, squares, or octagons. Geometric shapes, animal figures, and boteh motifs.
Style: the bold geometric patterns and use of natural dyes.
Knot Density: 80,000 knots per sq m to a denser 200,000 knots per sq m.
Pile Thickness: 2 - 6 mm.
Colors: Deep reds, blues, and greens are commonly used, along with accents of ivory, yellow, and black.
Knot Type: The most common knot used in Qashqai rugs is the asymmetrical knot, sometimes referred to as the Senneh knot variation.