Persian carpets

Tabriz, in the northwest of Iran, is one of the most renowned places for carpet weaving. As early as the 16th century, there were workshops here that worked for the court.

A Tabriz carpet (also known as Täbriz carpet) is recognised by its precision.
The patterns are very clear, almost as if they have been drawn. Often, one finds large medallions in the centre, surrounded by floral vines, arabesques, or hunting scenes.
Some carpets from Tabriz also depict figurative representations, which is rather rare.

The colours are vibrant, with red, blue, and sometimes beige as a balance.
A Täbriz carpet has a commanding presence. It is well-suited for large living or dining rooms, where it becomes the focal point of the space. Anyone who sees it immediately notices the precision of the work. In expert circles, this is often referred to as the "classic Tabriz style". Some dealers also use the term Tabriz Iran carpet.

Keshan is a city in central Iran, known for its carpets with vibrant colours. Typical is a large, round medallion in the centre, which stands out clearly from the background. It is surrounded by floral patterns that fill the entire carpet. The main colours are red and blue, complemented by lighter tones that accentuate the pattern.

A Keshan carpet has a traditional appearance.
It fits well in rooms that are furnished in a classic style, such as a dining room or a living room with heavy furniture. It also makes an impact in a larger space, as the vibrant colours enliven the floor.
Many consider the Keshan to be the typical Persian carpet, as it closely matches the image one has in mind when talking about "a real Persian carpet".

The town of Moud is located in eastern Iran, and the carpets from there are easily recognisable by their clear patterns.
The so-called Herati motif is often used: small diamonds in which leaves and flowers are incorporated. The colours are usually subtle, such as beige, blue, or a soft red. This gives the carpets a balanced appearance, neither heavy nor restless.

A Moud carpet fits well in spaces where a calm atmosphere is desired. Many place it in living rooms or studies, as it brings the room together without being too dominant.

Those who spend more time observing the pattern will notice the repetition, which almost resembles a rhythm. This makes it a carpet that fits particularly well in spaces where one wishes to concentrate or relax.

Ghom, also written as Qom, is a relatively young carpet weaving centre, but the carpets from there have become world-famous.
Particularly renowned are the pieces made from pure silk. They are very finely knotted, sometimes with two million knots per square metre. This allows for patterns that are so detailed they can almost be regarded as miniature paintings.
The colours range from gold and ivory to green or blue, often with an almost shimmering effect.
A Ghom carpet is more delicate than a piece made from pure wool and is therefore rarely used in everyday life. Many Ghom carpets are made of silk and are thus sensitive. For this reason, they are seldom placed in areas that experience a lot of foot traffic. They are often found in a study or in a room that is not used constantly. Some owners even hang them on the wall because they prefer to admire them rather than walk on them.

Mashhad is located in the northeast of Iran. From there come carpets that are often made in vibrant red, with dark blue patterns as a contrast. A typical feature is a large medallion in the centre, which stands out clearly from the background. In trade, these pieces are often found under the designation Mashhad carpet.

A Mashhad carpet needs space. Many of these carpets are also very large, making them particularly suitable for wide areas.

Kerman is located in the south of Iran. Carpets from there can be recognised immediately by their patterns. They often feature flowers, leaves, or entire bouquets that spread across the surface. The colours are mostly red and blue, sometimes combined with lighter tones. Many pieces appear vibrant, almost as if the carpet is a garden on the floor.

A Kerman carpet fits well in larger rooms. It comes into its own when it can be seen in its entirety, without furniture obscuring it. It particularly enhances living or dining rooms, as it makes the space feel warmer and more colourful.

Kashmar is located in the northeast of Iran, in the Khorasan region, and has made a name for itself in carpet weaving. Unlike many other Persian carpets, which mainly feature floral patterns or medallions, Kashmar carpets often tell real stories.

Kashmar Carpets do not appear gaudy at first glance.
The colours are usually somewhat understated: dark red, an earthy beige, and vibrant blue are commonly found. Upon closer inspection, one notices that it is precisely this combination that gives the carpets their unique effect.

The pieces possess a certain dignity, sometimes even a certain weight, which makes them very present in a room. Their knotting is fine, without being as delicate as the extremely dense silk carpets from Ghom or Isfahan.

Kashmar carpets are particularly valued by collectors who are in search of something unusual. Each piece is not only a craft-worthy carpet but also a cultural testament. They reveal their impact best in a living room or reception area. Some owners even hang them on the wall, as the pictorial scenes are viewed as artworks.

Important features include the knot density, the quality of the wool or silk, and the clarity of the pattern.
The reverse side also provides clues: in a genuine piece, the pattern is clearly visible there.

A Persian carpet is robust, but it requires the right care.
It is best to vacuum it regularly without pressing too hard on the fibres. Stains should be dealt with immediately, preferably using a cloth that does not shed. Rubbing is not advisable, as it can cause the wool to felt.