Tabriz Persian Rugs - Rug Guide
Tabriz, a prominent city in the northwest of Iran, close to the borders of Russia's Azerbaijan and Turkey, is renowned for its rich heritage in carpet weaving. This culturally diverse city hosts an extensive carpet production ranging from simple to luxurious designs, woven by experienced artisans who often inscribe their names onto the carpets as a sign of their craftsmanship.
The carpets from Tabriz are unique in their construction and aesthetics. They are woven almost exclusively on vertical looms in private homes, adding a personal touch to every piece. The weavers, who are of Turkish descent, predominantly use the Turkish knot, maintaining a strong connection to their roots.
Tabriz carpets are a vital part of Persian carpet production and are among the most sought-after for domestic and interior decoration in Iran. The designs range from the distinctive Mahi (Fish) pattern, inspired by traditional Persian gardens, to intricate floral designs. Often, these designs are centralised around a medallion.
In terms of materials, some Tabriz rugs contain more silk than others, adding a luxurious sheen and softness. The most exquisite examples are woven onto silk foundations, evidenced by their silk fringes.
Tabriz carpets have an additional categorisation that refers to the knot density per square meter, providing an indicator of the rug's quality. For instance, the finest carpets, known as 90Raj, have over a million knots per square meter. Simpler rugs, known as 40Raj, still boast a significant density of 400,000 to 500,000 knots per square meter, surpassing most other carpet origins. Rarely, there are Tabriz 70Raj rugs, with up to 1,000,000 knots per square meter.
In essence, Tabriz's carpets represent a harmonious blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and quality, mirroring the rich heritage of the city they originate from.
