Isfahan Rug

Isfahan Rug
Design of Isfahan Rug (Rugman)
General information
Name	Isfahan Rug
Original name	قالی اصفهان
Alternative name(s)	Isfahan Carpet
Origin	Iran: Isfahan
Category	City
Technical information
Common designs	Lachak Toranj, Tree, Arabesque (Eslimi)
Common colors	Crimson, Cream, Navy Blue, Ruby, Begie, Blue
Dyeing method	Natural, Synthetic
Pile material	Silk
Foundation material	Silk, Cotton
Knot type	Asymmetrical (Persian), Jufti

Isfahan rugs originate from Isfahan, located between two mountain ranges just south of Tehran, Isfahan is the capital city of the province. The weaving of Isfahan rugs dates back to the 16th century. During its peak in the 17th century Isfahan became the capital of Iran. The most sought after Isfahan rugs are made by the very famous master weaver, Serafian. These rugs are in such great demand that a whole industry of counterfeit Serafian traditional rugs now exists. Buyer beware. The best protection is to purchase Isfahan rugs only from a reputable dealer who will provide a certificate of authentication. The skilled artisans of authentic Isfahan rugs ply their trade using Persian knots with varying KPSI (knots per square inch), depending on the quality of the rug.

Techniques and structures

Weaving techniques

The Persian (asymmetric) knot was used for all Isfahan pile carpets and rugs during this period.
The Ahmad Isfahan rugs are known for the smaller sizes, which range approximately five feet by three feet to seven feet by four feet six inches.
The sizes of Isfahan weavings range from small pillows to large palace dimensions. Safavid-period Isfahan weavings were made in sizes ranging from approximately three feet square to forty-five feet in length carpets, with most originally made in long and narrow gallery formats.

Bibliography

Abraham Levi Moheban, (2015), The Encyclopedia of Antique Carpets: Twenty-Five Centuries of Weaving, NewYork: Princeton Architectural Press.