Rug Dictionary

Persian Knot (Asymmetrical Knot)

This knotting method involves wrapping pile yarn around a single warp thread and is also known as Senna knot. It excels at creating smooth curves, making it ideal for elegant patterns such as flowers and medallions. It is commonly found in regions known for delicate designs, such as Isfahan and Qum.

Turkish Knot (Symmetrical Knot)

This method involves knotting across two warp threads and is also known as Ghiordes knot. It is characterized by its crispness and works well with linear geometric patterns. It is frequently used in designs from the west of Tabriz and the Caucasus region.

Knot Density (Raj/Heft)

This indicator shows how many knots are arranged within a certain width; a larger number indicates finer knots. Raj is used in Tabriz and counts the number of knot rows per 7cm width. In Isfahan, the unit Heft is used, counting the color-different vertical threads (marker lines) that are evenly spaced between the fringe and pile on the back of the rug to indicate weaving fineness. Generally, the range is about 7 to 16 hefts per meter, with a higher number indicating higher density. Density serves as a guideline for the precision of urban workshops, while tribal tribal rugs are valued based on design, color, and material rather than density.

Materials (Wool/Silk/Cotton Warp)

Wool breathes and adjusts humidity, providing resilience and deep coloration that returns after being stepped on. Silk shines softly under light, offering a supple texture and durability against fading. The base Cotton Warp stabilizes dimensions and maintains shape over time.

Silk Touch (Wool with Silk-like Luster)

Silk Touch is a type of wool. It is carefully processed and brushed wool that achieves a silk-like luster and soft, thick pile; it is not silk. It refers to the moist and lustrous texture of wool seen in Pakistani rugs such as Jaldar.

Grade "Fine"

This grade represents a high-quality piece with fine weaving and precise craftsmanship. The fewer the number of twists, the finer the knots, and such meticulous weaving is referred to as Fine. This term is used for the intricate rugs of urban workshops like Nain.

Natural Dyes

Red is created from madder and cochineal, yellow from larkspur and turmeric, and blue from rare indigo layered on top. The dyeing process alone takes more than a week through refining, dyeing, and washing. Colors derived from natural sources are deep and blend beautifully with the surroundings as they are used over time.

Fringe

This refers to the fringe of warp threads (vertical threads) that appear at both ends of the rug. At the ends of the pile or flat-woven sections, the base warp threads are exposed, and they are gathered or tied to prevent fraying. In handwoven rugs, the base warp threads become the fringe and appear symmetrically on the left and right short sides (the edges of the long sides are referred to as "ears").

Medallion

This is the most beloved composition, featuring a large circular or oval shape at the center of the rug. It is said to have developed from the designs of manuscript bindings and became widespread as a central composition during the Safavid period. The typical form is the "Medallion-Corner" with corner motifs added to the four corners.

Herati (Mahi)

This elegant all-over pattern features a series of shapes reminiscent of small fish. "Mahi" means fish in Persian. It is said to symbolize peace and happiness in the home and is favored in weaving in regions like Tabriz and Bijar.

Boteh (Paisley)

The motif is shaped like a curved magatama, known as paisley in English. It can be used in various ways, such as being spread across the entire surface or lined along the border. There are several theories regarding its origin, including Iranian and Kashmiri theories, but we do not make a definitive statement here. It is a different pattern from the upward-pointing cypress.

Gol (Gül)

A diamond-shaped emblematic motif commonly found in Turkmen rugs. Each tribe has its own unique shape, and it has been woven as a tribal mark. The geometric appeal stands out against a strong red background.

Tree of Life / Cypress

A pattern depicting a tree with rich foliage, symbolizing life, abundance, and longevity. The slender, upward-pointing cypress is also represented as a type of Tree of Life, differing in appearance from the magatama-shaped motif.

Border

A band-like frame that surrounds the field, serving to tighten the overall rug. It is composed of continuous motifs such as crab patterns, S-shaped patterns, and running dogs, and it is common to combine a thick main border with a thin secondary border.