A Brief Guide: How to Identify Antique Persian Rugs
Persian rugs are one of the world’s most popular and iconic types of carpets. These beautiful works of art are handmade in Iran (formerly Persia) and feature intricate designs passed down through generations of rug makers. Persian rugs come in various colors, sizes, and patterns, making them a perfect way to add a touch of luxury and elegance to any home.
These works of art are typically made from wool, but can also be made from silk or other materials. The most popular colors for Persian rugs are red and blue, but they can also be found in many different colors. The patterns on Persian rugs are often geometric or floral, and they can be either muted or brightly colored.
Persian rugs are typically quite expensive, but they are worth the investment if you want to add a touch of luxury and elegance to your home. If you want to purchase a Persian rug, then you should do some research to find a reputable dealer who can offer you a fair price. You can also find Persian rugs online, but read the seller’s return policy before making a purchase.
When dealing with how to identify antique Persian rugs, there are a few key factors you will want to keep in mind. First and foremost, it is essential to note that not all Persian carpets are considered antiques. In addition, for a Persian rug to be regarded as an antique, it must be at least 70 years old.
What Are The Most Common Traps When Recognizing Genuine Antique Persian Rugs?
There are many ways to identify antique Persian rugs:
- One of the most common misunderstanding is to assume that all Persian rugs are valuable. Unfortunately, this is not the case. While some Persian rugs may be worthy, others may not worth much. Therefore, it is essential to do your research and consult with an expert before assuming that a Persian rug is valuable.
- Another common mistake is to assume that all antique Persian rugs are in perfect condition. This is also not the case. Many antique Persian rugs are well-worn, as they have been used for years. If the carpet is pristine, it is likely not an antique.
- It is essential to remember that not all dealers are honest. Many dishonest dealers out there will try to sell you a fake rug. Therefore, it is crucial to do your research and only buy from reputable dealers.
- One of the most important things to identify antique Persian rugs is the foundation of the rug. The foundation of an antique Persian rug will be made of either wool or cotton. It is likely not an antique if the foundation is made of anything else, such as synthetic materials.
- Another thing to identify antique Persian rugs is the dye used on the rug. Antique Persian rugs typically use natural dyes, such as vegetable or flower dyes. If the carpet uses synthetic dyes, it is likely not an antique.
- The weave of the rug is also important to identify antique Persian rugs. Antique Persian rugs will typically have a tighter weave and better construction than modern rugs. The tighter the weave, the more valuable the carpet will likely be.
- Finally, it is crucial to consider the condition of the rug. Antique Persian rugs are often well-worn, as they have been used for many years. If the carpet is pristine, it is likely not an antique.
Keep these points in mind when trying to identify antique Persian rugs.
What Are The Types Of Persian Rugs?
There are many different Persian rugs, each with unique characteristics. However, the most common types of Persian rugs include:
- Tabriz Rugs:
Tabriz rugs, originating from the city of Tabriz in northwestern Iran, are revered for their exquisite craftsmanship and diverse array of designs. Renowned as one of the oldest rug weaving centers in the world, Tabriz has a rich tradition of producing fine-quality rugs that reflect the city’s cultural heritage. Tabriz rugs often feature intricate floral motifs, geometric patterns, and elaborate medallions, woven with precision and attention to detail.
Crafted from high-quality wool or silk on a cotton foundation, Tabriz rugs boast a luxurious texture and enduring beauty. With their exceptional craftsmanship and timeless appeal, Tabriz rugs are cherished as prized possessions, adding elegance and sophistication to any interior space they adorn.
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- Esfahan Rugs:
Esfahan rugs (also known as Isfahan rugs) originating from the city of Isfahan in central Iran, are esteemed for their unparalleled craftsmanship and intricate designs. These rugs are renowned for their fine weave, exquisite detail, and sumptuous materials, often featuring intricate floral motifs, elaborate arabesques, and ornate medallions.
Crafted using high-quality wool or silk on a cotton foundation, Esfahan rugs boast a luxurious texture and exceptional durability. With their rich history dating back centuries and their reputation for superior quality, Esfahan rugs are highly prized among collectors and enthusiasts of Persian carpets. Adorning any space with elegance and sophistication, Esfahan rugs serve as timeless works of art that elevate the ambiance of any room they grace.
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- Kashan Rugs:
Kashan rugs, originating from the city of Kashan in central Iran, are revered for their exceptional craftsmanship and classical Persian designs. Characterized by intricate floral patterns, elegant medallions, and rich color palettes, Kashan rugs exemplify the epitome of traditional Persian rug artistry.
Hand-knotted with high-quality wool or silk on a cotton foundation, these rugs boast a luxurious feel and long-lasting durability. Known for their fine weave and meticulous attention to detail, Kashan rugs are prized possessions sought after by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. With their timeless beauty and cultural significance, Kashan rugs serve as exquisite decorative accents that bring a touch of elegance and heritage to any home or space.
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- Qum Rugs:
Qum rugs, hailing from the city of Qom in central Iran, are celebrated for their exquisite craftsmanship and intricate designs. Often crafted with fine silk threads and featuring intricate floral motifs, arabesques, and medallions, Qum rugs showcase the unparalleled skill of Persian rug artisans.
These rugs are renowned for their luxurious texture, fine weave, and luminous colors, making them highly prized among collectors and connoisseurs of hand-woven carpets. With their timeless elegance and superb quality, Qum rugs are cherished as masterpieces of Persian artistry, adding sophistication and refinement to any interior space they adorn.
(Click here to view our Qum rugs!)
- Shiraz Rugs:
Shiraz rugs originate from the city of Shiraz, located in the southwest region of Iran. Renowned for their bold geometric patterns and vibrant color palettes, Shiraz rugs often feature motifs inspired by nature, such as floral designs or animal figures.
Handcrafted by skilled artisans using traditional weaving techniques passed down through generations, these rugs are cherished for their durability and timeless appeal. With their rich cultural heritage and meticulous craftsmanship, Shiraz rugs make a striking addition to any interior space, infusing it with warmth, character, and Persian charm.
(Click here to view our Shiraz rugs!)
What Are The Most Famous Persian Rug Designs?
Many different designs are associated with Persian rugs. However, the most popular designs include:
- Floral designs: Floral designs are some of the most popular designs found on Persian rugs. They’re often characterized by curved designs and ornate details.
- Geometric designs: Geometric designs are also popular among Persian rugs. They often feature boxed shapes with angles, and generally have a primitive look.
Click HERE to watch a video on different rug categories!
How To Identify an Authentic Persian Rug?
1. Find Out Where The Rug Was Made
When you identify antique Persian rugs, it is essential to find out where the carpet was made. Many antique Persian rugs are made in Iran, but many are made in other countries, such as Turkey and China. If the carpet is not made in Iran, it is likely not an antique. It should be noted that some replicas of antique Persian rugs are made in Iran, so this is not a guarantee.
2. Hand-Tufted or Hand-Knotted
Another thing to consider when determining the age of a Persian rug is whether it is hand-tufted or hand-knotted. Antique Persian rugs will typically be hand-knotted. This means that each strand of yarn is twisted by hand. If the rug is machine-made, they are not antique rugs.
Hand-knotted rugs are typically more valuable than hand-tufted rugs. This is because they are more labor intensive to make and therefore considered to be of higher quality.
3. Check for a Signature
Some antique Persian rugs may have a signature on them. This can be a helpful way to determine what workshop the rug was woven in. If the signature is from a well-known rug weaver, such as Seirafian, then the rug likely is an antique.
4. Make Sure to Check the Front and the Back of the Rug
When you identify antique Persian rugs, it is also important to check the front and back of the carpet. The front of the mat will typically be in better condition than the back, as it has not been exposed to as much wear and tear. However, the back of the rug can still provide some clues as to its age.
5. Persian Rugs Have a Soft Backing
One of the main things to look for when checking the back of a Persian rug is the backing. Antique Persian rugs typically have a soft foundation made of cotton or wool. If the foundation is made of something else, such as nylon or polypropelene, it is not an antique.
6. The Knotting of the Rug
Another thing to look for on the back of a Persian rug is the knotting. These tiny knots are used to secure the strands of yarn in place. The more knots there are, the higher quality the rug will be.
7. The Hem
The hem is the edging of the rug that is finished with a different weave than the rest. It is typically made of cotton or wool and is tightly woven. The hem can be a helpful way to determine the age of authentic Persian rugs, as older rugs will have an aged edging.
8. Inspect the Rug for Wear and Tear
Another thing to look for when determining the age of handmade Persian rugs is it’s condition. Antique rugs typically show signs of wear, such as fraying or fading. If the carpet looks in perfect condition, it is likely not an antique.
9. Consider the Design of the Rug
The design of a Persian rug can also help determine its age. Older rugs may have more of an intricate design, as antique rugs generally are made with higher quality.
10. Check the Fringe
The fringe is the part of the rug that hangs down from the end. It is typically made of wool or cotton and is usually tightly woven. The condition of fringes can be a helpful way to determine the age of a Persian rug, as older rugs will have shorter or worn out fringes than newer rugs.
11. See If It’s Colorfast
The color of a Persian rug can also help determine its age. Older rugs will often have more subdued colors than newer ones. It is likely not an antique if the rug’s dyes are vibrant and fresh.
12. Consult With An Expert
If you are still unsure whether a Persian rug is an antique, it is always best to consult with an expert. Many experts deal specifically with antique Persian rugs, and they will be able to give you a more accurate assessment.
When you want to identify antique Persian rugs, it is essential to consider all of these factors. Antique Persian rugs can be valuable pieces that add beauty and history to any home.
If you think you may have antique Persian or Turkish rugs, it is best to consult a reputable retailer like us , your expert for Persian Rugs in Chicago, to get a more accurate assessment.
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Difference Between Persian and Oriental Rugs
Persian rugs are those that were made in Persia, which is now known as Iran. Oriental rugs were made in the “orient” or Middle East and Asian countries. Most Persian rugs are typically more valuable than Oriental rugs because they are considered to be of higher quality, with a deeper culture and history of rug weaving. Also, most Persian rugs often have more intricate and detailed designs than others. Conversely, the structures of Oriental rugs are not as ornate or tightly woven. If you still have any doubts, then give us a call at our oriental rugs Chicago service center.
If you want to buy authentic or antique rugs, then contact Rouzati Rugs – highly rated on Google and Yelp as a premier rug retailer in the North Shore of Chicago.
How Can We Help to Identify the Authenticity of Persian Rugs?
After many years of supplying the best Persian rugs in Chicago, we have assembled a team of experts dedicated to helping our customers identify the authenticity of their rugs. We offer a wide range of services for traditional rugs, including rug appraisals and a certificate of authentication, to help our customers determine the age and value of their carpets. We also sell a wide variety of unique transitional rugs, so that our customers can find the perfect carpet for their homes.
Want to Clean Your Rugs? Contact Us Today!
Schedule an appointment for our rug cleaning experts to come to your home to pickup your rug, and clean it in our rug cleaning facility. We also offer various other rug-related services, such as repair and restoration.
Call us today at 847-328-0000 ext. 1 or email us at [email protected].
Some Basic Q&A About Antique Persian Rugs
- How can we understand if a Persian rug is handmade or machine-made?
Persian rugs manufactured by hand generally contain imperfections in the weaving and knotting, whereas carpets made by machines will look more consistent and homogeneous. Additionally, handmade rugs have a soft and pliable backing, as machine made rugs will have a hard and stiff backing.
2. Can Rouzati Rugs help me to identify antique rugs?
Absolutely! Their team of experts are well-versed in analyzing all types of rugs. Antique Persian rugs frequently use intricate patterns and premium materials. With antique rugs, there may be some imperfections in the weave, wear and tear from use, and color differences brought on by “abrash” (variation of natural dyes), among other distinctive qualities. They frequently have a particular sheen and a delicate touch since they are made of premium wool or silk.
3. Are antique Persian rugs a good investment?
As a result of their high level of craftsmanship, complex patterns, and scarcity, antique Persian rugs are frequently considered wise investments – especially the unique ones! They have a long history of being prized by collectors, and their worth can increase over time, particularly if they are kept up and in good shape.
4. What are the different types of Persian rugs?
There are many different types of Persian rugs, each with its own unique characteristics and design. Some of the most popular types that we have already say about them in this blog.