History & Origin of Tabriz Rugs

Tabriz is famous for its stunning handmade rugs. For centuries, people worldwide have admired their exquisite craftsmanship and breathtaking designs.

Tabriz rugs are truly special. These rugs are more than just beautiful – they’re masterpieces of art that showcase intricate detail and sophisticated designs. Bring a touch of luxury and history into your life with a genuine Tabriz rug.

Browse our rug collection and find the perfect Tabriz rug to add a touch of timeless elegance to your home.

History of Tabriz Rugs

Tabriz, one of the world’s oldest and most prolific carpet-producing centres, boasts a history spanning over a thousand years. Despite numerous invasions and political upheavals, the city has consistently upheld its ancient rug-weaving traditions.

The Safavid Dynasty (1499-1722) marked a golden age for Persian rug weaving. After liberating Tabriz from Turkish rule, the Safavids established a renowned Royal workshop, transforming the city into the heart of Persian artistic expression.

Even today, Tabriz remains a global hub for high-quality rug production. Designers worldwide seek out Tabriz for its skilled weavers and ability to replicate intricate patterns.

Many Tabriz rugs bear the signatures of their master weavers, a testament to their craftsmanship. While signatures can be found on other fine rugs, a signature on the “ceremonial” border of a Tabriz Naqsheh signifies the utmost quality and sophistication.

Tabriz rugs are renowned for their luxurious materials. Fine Tabriz rugs often feature a blend of fine Kurk wool and silk, while those of higher quality may incorporate silk foundations or even 18 or 24-karat gold threads.

Tabriz rugs are among the finest in the world. In terms of quality and artistry, they stand alongside Isfahan, Kashan, Kerman, Qum, and Nain rugs.

Distinctive Features of Tabriz Rugs

Tabriz rugs are renowned for their stunning variety of patterns. From elaborate floral motifs and captivating central medallions to intricate geometric designs inspired by the city’s rich cultural heritage, these rugs offer a feast for the eyes.

The colour palette of Tabriz rugs is sophisticated and often features a harmonious blend of reds, blues, and creams.

Known for their exceptional craftsmanship, Tabriz rugs can exhibit a wide range of knot densities.

Materials and Techniques

Tabriz rugs are crafted using a combination of high-quality materials.

• Wool: Durable and soft wool from local sheep breeds forms the foundation of most rugs.
• Silk: Adding a touch of luxury, silk is often used to outline intricate details like flowers and leaves. Some exquisite rugs are even woven entirely from silk.
• Cotton: Cotton provides strength and stability, and it is commonly used for the warp and weft threads of the rug’s foundation.

Traditional weaving techniques are employed in Tabriz. Vertical looms with Turkish warping are used, and the kilim weaving style closely resembles the well-known Turkish tradition.

Tabriz rugs are renowned for their exceptional quality. Most rugs are woven on a fine cotton base, while higher-quality pieces may utilise a pure silk foundation.

The knot count is a significant factor in determining a rug’s quality. Tabriz rugs boast high knot counts, often exceeding 500 knots per square inch in finer pieces. In recent years, skilled weavers have produced exceptionally fine silk-flower rugs with remarkably high knot counts.

Colour

Colour plays a crucial role in the artistry of Tabriz rugs. Rich hues like fuchsia, maroon, olive green, and orange infuse the designs with life. The skilful use of shading and highlighting creates a three-dimensional effect, making the motifs more realistic and engaging.

While traditional Tabriz rugs often feature high-contrast colour combinations like red and navy blue, contemporary designs embrace a wider spectrum of hues. Modern Tabriz rugs also explore the concept of depth and perspective, adding a unique dimension to this two-dimensional art form.

Design and Pattern

Tabriz Persian Rugs are renowned for their exceptional design diversity. Tabriz offers a stunning array of styles, from intricate floral motifs and geometric patterns to elaborate fish designs and captivating pictorial representations.

Common design elements include:

• Dense floral motifs: Including large palmettes and vases.
• Vivid hunting scenes and pictorials: Depicting historical, mythological, and everyday life scenes.
• Geometric designs: Incorporating intricate patterns and motifs.
• Khatai motifs: Featuring intricate floral patterns like Shah Abbasi flowers.

Some of the most celebrated Tabriz rug designs include:

• Mostofi (Gol Farang): Inspired by European floral motifs.
• Mahi (Herati Pattern): Featuring intricate “fish scale” motifs.
• Eslimi with Medallion: Combining intricate spirals and curves with a central medallion.
• Vase: Showcasing elegant vase motifs with floral arrangements.
• Mina-Khani: Characterised by a repeating latticework of interconnected flowers.
• Tree Pattern: Depicting various tree and foliage designs.
• Pictorial Designs: Showcasing various scenes, from hunting expeditions to historical narratives.
• Dome or Golestani Pattern: Depicting garden layouts and floral designs.

Many designs are named after renowned designers and producers, such as Qareh Baghi, Salari, Alia, Nami, and Khatibi, adding to the prestige of these exceptional rugs.

Value and Influence of Tabriz Rugs

Tabriz rugs are highly valued as both artistic treasures and valuable investments. Their popularity among collectors worldwide stems from several key factors:

• Rarity: Handwoven by skilled artisans using traditional techniques, these rugs are unique and limited in production.
• Exceptional Quality: Renowned for their high knot density, intricate designs, and harmonious colour palettes, Tabriz rugs showcase exceptional craftsmanship.
• Impressive Scale: From small mats to large, room-sized creations, these rugs demonstrate the skill and dedication of their weavers.
• Historical Significance: Rugs from earlier eras, particularly the Safavid period, carry significant historical value, reflecting the rich heritage of Tabriz rug weaving.

Beyond their intrinsic value, Tabriz rugs have left an indelible mark on art history, inspiring designs in Turkish rugs, European paintings, and contemporary decor.

Want to know the value of your rug? Our rug valuation and appraisal services can help.

What Makes Tabriz Rugs So Special?

If you want to choose a great Persian rug, Tabriz rugs might be the best for you. Tabriz rugs are highly prized for their exceptional artistry, craftsmanship, and rich history.

• Intricate Designs: Tabriz rugs feature elaborate floral motifs, geometric patterns, and stunning medallions, which showcase exceptional artistic skill and precision.
• Masterful Craftsmanship: These rugs, woven by skilled artisans using traditional techniques, are renowned for their durability and beauty.
• Premium Materials: Crafted from high-quality materials like fine wool and silk, Tabriz rugs are visually appealing and remarkably long-lasting.
• Diverse Designs: Offering a wide range of styles and colour palettes, Tabriz rugs cater to diverse tastes and seamlessly integrate into various interior designs.
• Historical Significance: As one of the world’s oldest rug-weaving centres, Tabriz boasts a rich history that adds to the cultural value of these exquisite creations.

These factors, combined with their rarity and enduring appeal, make Tabriz rugs highly sought after by collectors and discerning buyers worldwide.

How Do People Decorate Around Tabriz Rugs?

Decorating with a Tabriz rug involves thoughtfully integrating its unique style and beauty into your decor.
Here are some tips to help you showcase your Tabriz rug:

Colour Harmony

Start by identifying the dominant colours in your Tabriz rug. Use these colours to guide other decor elements, such as furniture upholstery, curtains, throw pillows, and wall colours.

Choose colours that complement or contrast with the rug to create a balanced and visually appealing colour scheme.

Furniture Placement

Arrange furniture strategically to highlight the beauty of your Tabriz rug.

Ensure the rug is sufficiently sized to accommodate key furniture pieces, allowing them to rest partially or fully on its surface.

Centre the furniture arrangement around the rug’s central medallion to create a visually striking focal point.

Balance with Patterns

Pair an intricately patterned Tabriz rug with solid-coloured or simply patterned decor to avoid a cluttered look.

If your furniture or other fabrics have patterns, ensure they harmonise with the rug’s design instead of conflicting with it.

Texture and Material

When choosing another decor, consider how the rug’s texture and material feel.

For instance, if you have a silky Tabriz rug, incorporate luxurious elements to create a more refined atmosphere.

Lighting

Use lighting to showcase the Tabriz rug’s beauty.

Consider strategically placing accent lights, like spotlights or floor lamps, to illuminate the rug and make its colours and intricate details pop.

Wall Art and Accessories

Select wall art and accessories that harmonise with the Tabriz rug’s style.

This could involve artwork with matching colours or decorative pieces that subtly reflect the rug’s patterns.

Maintain a cohesive decor by choosing accessories that enhance the room’s look and feel.

Room Layout

Think about how the Tabriz rug can define different areas within the room.

For example, in a living room, the rug can mark out the seating area, creating a cosy and distinct space.

Mixing Styles

Tabriz rugs are versatile and can fit seamlessly into many different interior styles, from classic to modern.

Feel free to experiment with a blend of styles, but ensure the overall design feels harmonious and unified.

Antique vs. Modern Blend

If you own an antique Tabriz rug, pair it with modern furniture for a timeless and eclectic look.

This unexpected combination can create a visually striking and unique effect.

Remember that personal style is key. Feel free to adapt these tips to fit your preferences and the overall aesthetic you’re aiming for in your home.

Discover the Enchantment of Tabriz Rugs

Discover the allure of Tabriz rugs and enrich your home with a piece of history and artistry. Explore Bijan’s exclusive collection of handcrafted oriental and persian rugs in Sydney especially our Tabriz rugs and find the perfect complement to your living space.

Experience the enchantment of these breathtaking rugs, meticulously crafted to showcase the exceptional artistry of their creators. Embark on your journey into the world of Tabriz rugs today.

Contact us now to find out about our amazing collection.