🧵 Why Iranian Rugs Are Still the Gold Standard of Handmade Carpets

Craft, Culture & Timeless Beauty from the Heart of Persia

When people talk about the world’s finest carpets, one word consistently rises to the top: Iranian rug. Known globally for their breathtaking artistry, precision craftsmanship, and cultural significance, Iranian rugs represent the pinnacle of handmade textile art.

At Sharafi & Co, our deep connection to the rug trade includes decades of experience sourcing authentic Iranian rugs — from bustling bazaars in Isfahan to the looms of tribal weavers in the Zagros Mountains.

🇮🇷 What Makes an Iranian Rug Unique?

While the term Persian rug is widely used, it’s important to note that all Persian rugs are Iranian rugs — the terms are often interchangeable. However, “Iranian rug” can also include modern, village, and tribal productions beyond the classical city types.

Key Features:

• Hand-knotted construction, often with 150,000+ knots per m²

• Naturally dyed wool or silk, with rich patina over time

• Symbolic motifs including flowers, birds, gardens, stars, and medallions

• Regional styles like Isfahan, Tabriz, Kashan, Qom, and tribal varieties like Qashqai and Bakhtiari

Iran is also home to the oldest known carpet weaving traditions, dating back over 2,500 years.

🧭 Iconic Iranian Rug Styles

🔹 Tabriz

Highly detailed, fine knots, medallion layouts. Ideal for formal spaces.

🔹 Isfahan

Silk foundations and classical patterns with pale ivory, blues, and reds.

🔹 Kashan

Deep reds and navy, with floral motifs. Durable and decorative.

🔹 Heriz

Geometric and bold — the most sought-after tribal rug from northwest Iran.

🔹 Qashqai

Woven by nomads, featuring vibrant, organic patterns and natural dyes.

🛋 Styling Iranian Rugs in Contemporary Spaces

Today, Iranian rugs are more versatile than ever. Whether you’re styling a modern London loft or a countryside manor, their timeless motifs and luxurious feel work across styles:

• Pair a Qashqai tribal rug with a modern sofa for contrast

• Use an Isfahan silk rug as a bedroom centrepiece

• Add a Heriz rug to ground an industrial-style room

• Use runners in hallways or kitchens to introduce warmth and colour

💡 How to Identify a Genuine Iranian Rug

When investing in a handmade rug, especially from Iran, watch for:

✅ Hand-knotted weave (check the back)
✅ Natural wool or silk, not synthetic blends
✅ Irregularities in pattern, showing human craftsmanship
✅ A tag or dealer provenance confirming origin

At Sharafi & Co, we personally inspect and hand-select every Iranian rug for authenticity and quality.

🧼 Caring for Your Iranian Rug

• Vacuum with care — no rotating brushes

• Rotate regularly to avoid uneven fading

• Avoid harsh sunlight

• Clean professionally every few years

• Use a rug underlay to preserve the structure

Need help? We offer professional rug cleaning and repair tailored to Iranian wool and silk weaves.

🛍 Explore Iranian Rugs in the UK

We carry a carefully curated collection of Iranian rugs, from antique pieces to contemporary tribal creations. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned collector, our team is here to help you find the perfect rug with character, history, and heart.

🔗 Shop Iranian Rugs

📞 +44 (0)20 8735 0701
✉️ info@sharafiandco.com