0330 113 4909
Mon to Fri 9am-5pm
Mon to Fri 9am-5pm
Around the World in 80 Rugs: Persian Rugs
From the earliest royal palaces to the most modern homes, Persian rugs have been used and treasured for centuries for their timeless appeal and transformative power in interior design. Woven tapestries of storytelling, tradition, and cultural significance in vibrant colours and intricate, fascinating patterns and designs, it’s easy to understand why they’re so sought after still. If you’re looking for a Persian rug for your home, you’ll find excellent examples here.
In this edition of our series, Around the World in 80 Rugs, you’ll find everything you need to know or want to learn about the history of the Persian rug. Explore with us as we delve deep into the fascinating background and show you how they could fit into your own interior spaces.
The Legacy of Persian Rugs
The legacy of Persian rugs stretches back almost 2,500 years – to the origins of the world’s oldest surviving rug: the Pazyryk Persian rug. It was excavated in 1949 from the grave of a Scythian nobleman in the Pazyryk Valley of the Altai Mountains in Siberia, and many experts argue that it was an imported Persian rug owing to the decoration.
Testing has suggested that the Pazyryk Persian rug was woven in or around 500 BC. Other early examples and mentions of Persian rugs are not quite as old as this, though they do highlight how precious the pieces were to those who owned them.
Since this time, the Persian rug has remained a staple of the region through various wars, empires, and dynasties. The place most commonly known as Persia eventually reverted to its native name of Iran in 1935. But even with changes in both the world and the tastes of those making and ordering the rugs, they’ve retained their luxurious and prestigious reputation.
And this is only part of the history that we know about; the advanced techniques used in the apparent creation of the Pazyryk Persian rug suggest that people were making rugs like it long before this date. As this is the only rug of that age to have survived, it’s this rug’s intricate design that has become the heritage of our “common ancestor” for all Oriental rugs and carpets.
Time-Honoured Craftsmanship
Traditionally, the process of crafting a Persian rug began with the shearing of sheep, followed by the spinning of the wool into yarn. The yarn was then dyed using natural pigments extracted from plants, roots, and insects. Once prepared, the weaving process could begin, often conducted on wooden looms that were either horizontal or vertical.
The quality of the wool involved in the creation of a rug would depend on a number of different factors, including:
- The breed of sheep
- The climate the sheep were raised in
- Pasturage
- The time of shearing
Threads for the rugs were all handcrafted. Women would turn the wool into thread and then boil these threads with natural dyes made from things like:
- Madder roots
- Conchineal
- Chamomile
- Grape leaves
- Pomegranate rind
- Indigo
These materials produce different shades of red, yellow, and blue, and it was only after the threads had dried could the weaving begin.
Thread Materials
Wool is the most traditional material for authentic Persian rugs, making them not only durable and long-lasting but also comfortable underfoot. Silk is also an option but due to being a more delicate material, rugs made from this material will normally be displayed on walls rather than floors.
Weaving the Rug
The craftsmanship involved in weaving a Persian rug was nothing short of remarkable. Each rug could take several months to several years to complete, depending on its size and the complexity of the design. Weavers followed many ornate patterns, creating thousands of knots to produce designs that could feature anything from floral patterns to complete myths and legends. Later examples in particular made use of the famous central “medallion” design, as well as elegant border designs and other motifs.
Many rugs are also imbued with symbolism, from straightforward symbolism like flowers representing paradise to more complex meanings like geometric patterns representing the structured order of the universe. The rugs themselves may even have their own symbolism. A typical feature of Islamic architecture and craftsmanship globally is the incorporation of one or more slight flaws or faults in the design – demonstrating to the world that humans are not perfect and that perfection can only be achieved by God (Allah).
Finishing the Rug
Once the rug was finished, it would be cut from the loom, washed, and dried in the sun.
The Persian Rugs of Today
The art of crafting Persian rugs has seen both continuity and change in the modern era. While many artisans still adhere to traditional methods, there are also modern adaptations that employ synthetic dyes and automated weaving techniques. These innovations have made Persian rugs more accessible, though purists often still seek out rugs made with traditional methods for their authenticity and craftsmanship.
Whether you're a purist interested in the age-old techniques or someone seeking a modern twist, Persian rugs offer a range of options. Their inherent versatility in design and colour makes them a remarkable choice for embellishing any interior space.
The Persian Style in Interior Design
Far from being relics of the past, Persian rugs easily find homes in various contemporary interior design styles. Their intricate patterns and rich colours offer a touch of luxury that can enhance anything from bohemian to traditional décor. They're versatile, and even a modern, minimalist space can be elevated by a carefully chosen Persian rug that acts as a focal point. The key is to let the rug speak – either it harmonises with your existing palette, or it makes a bold statement all on its own.
The rich hues of reds, blues, and golds commonly found in Persian rugs can complement a variety of colour schemes. They can warm up a room with cooler tones or offer a striking contrast in a neutral space. If your room is already filled with colour, a Persian rug can tie everything together like the finishing brushstroke on a painting.
Our Sophisticated Selection of Persian Rugs
Rugs Direct is proud to offer an array of striking, graceful, and alluring Persian rugs in colours ranging from traditional reds and blues to more modern black or beige. Certain designs even have elements of vibrant colours like pink and orange to them, including these offerings:
Choose Exquisite Designs From Our Collection
Genuine Persian and Persian-style rugs are both part of a legacy of rich cultural offerings, telling stories through intricate designs and colour palettes, and acting as both functional pieces and works of art. At Rugs Direct, we're committed to offering you a wide array of options that reflect ancient artistry and showcase the best modern adaptations of Persian rug-making.
Whether you want a classic piece that mirrors the designs of old or a modern interpretation that fits your budget, we have something to meet your needs. Explore our collection and discover how you can decorate your home with a rug or runner design that’s also part of a fantastic cultural heritage.