Joshagan rugs, originating from the Persian village of Joshagan (also known as Joshigan, Josheghan, Joshegan-e-Qali, Djaushegen), hold an illustrious history that dates back to the 17th century, during the golden years of rug weaving in the Safavid era. Joshagan, nestled in north-central Iran just north of the city of Isfahan, served as a significant market centre due to its strategic location on a critical trading route leading south from Kashan to Isfahan. However, when Tehran became Iran's capital in 1788, the primary trading route shifted, bypassing Joshagan and running through nearby Mehmeh, which then emerged as the dominant trading centre in the region.
Despite changes in trade dynamics, Joshagan's rug-weaving tradition has remained remarkably steadfast, with designs that have stayed relatively unchanged for centuries. These rugs are identifiable by their characteristic design pattern: a diamond-shaped central medallion set against a deep red field filled with geometrically shaped floral motifs. These motifs often bear resemblance to snowflakes or pebbles, and four-petal flowers are a frequent feature within the medallion. Contrasting these vibrant red backgrounds are dark blue borders and corners, occasionally adorned with stylised weeping willows.
While variations do exist, older Joshagan rugs may showcase a navy blue or rust-coloured field, and other common colours include ivory and green. In terms of design, Joshagan rugs share more similarities with the rugs from the Hamadan region than those from the neighbouring city of Isfahan. The nearby village of Mehmeh produces rugs with designs similar to those of Joshagan, often referred to as Mehmeh Joshagans, although they typically feature a much finer weave.
Sale
