Where Are Persian Rugs From?

Authentic Persian rugs are noted for their quality and beauty. These rugs speak of the traditions and cultures that abound in ancient Persia, other wise known as modern day Iran. Up to this very day, the art of rug making or carpet making is widely practiced in the Middle East and some parts of Asia. Persian rugs or carpets are those that are traditionally handmade in Iran but there are now so called Persian rugs that are machine made. There are actually three kinds of Persian carpets that are available in the market and they are classified by their size.

There is also another way of naming the different kinds of Persian rugs and this is through their designs and the cities or areas in which they are commonly produced. Sometimes the classification is also based on the type of design used, the weaving technique and the type of material used for the rug. Persian rugs and carpets originated from Islamic regions and are still found in many Islamic regions up to this very day. When the Mongols invaded some Islamic areas, it is said that they brought the art of weaving carpets and rugs to China.

Nomadic Carpets or Kilims

These Persian rugs are the smallest of their kind and can be easily carried around rolled up in a tight roll. These are the ones that some Moslems use when they worship or pray while some use these for purely decorative purposes.

Qalicheh

This is a Persian rug that is at its largest size at six by four feet, including those smaller than these dimensions. Most Persian rugs are rectangular in shape although other shapes are also found. Rugs of this size are commonly used as area rugs for smaller areas.

Farsh

These Persian rugs are those that are bigger than six by four feet in dimension. These are the rugs tat are commonly called carpets because they cover a huge space. Nowadays, these very large carpets are usually used to cover living space and may be used to designate the areas for couches or sofas.

The reason why Persian rugs are one of the most highly sought after carpets and rugs may be because the art of weaving rugs and carpets is assumed to have started in ancient Persia. The tradition of rug making is handed down in the family and kept there for centuries. Persian rugs' designs and motifs may differ per region and city.