What Are the Major Designs of Persian Rugs?

Collectors or future collectors of Persian rugs often ask about the major designs of Persian rugs. These rugs are considered to be some of the most highly valued of all collectible carpets.

There are three major designs of Persian rugs: 

1. Geometric
2. Curvilinear and Floral
3. Pictorial

Each pattern or design is unique by definition. A carpet can include one, or all three, of these designs.

Geometric Persian Rugs

Geometric designs are defined by repeated decorative lines that go in many directions. The lines can be vertical, horizontal, or diagonal to create a unique look.

• These types of Persian rugs are typically woven by nomadic tribes using cultural and traditional symbols as inspiration to create the final product.
• Most of the symbols used are symbols that mean something important to the tribe and that have existed for a number of years as a cherished part of their culture.
• These types of Persian rugs are often described as being primal because their pattern and color are not consistent due to the environment in which they are made and that each rug is woven by hand by nomads
• The cities that are best known for creating such rugs include Heriz, Hamadan, and Shiraz.

Curvilinear and Floral Design

Another popular type of Persian rug design is the curvilinear design and floral design.

• Most Persian rugs of this type are defined by a middle or central medallion. No two of these medallions are ever identical.
• Floral designs generally lily-like patterns in a central position with dangling tendrils which are delicate in nature.
• It is believed that the inspiration for these medallion designs originates from the designs seen on the domes of Mosques. It is also believed that the design on these rugs comes from the reign of the Safavid Dynasty in Iran.
• The Shah Abbasi design of the Persian rug is said to be one of the finest Persian rugs available to consumers for purchase.
• The Herati pattern also falls under the curvilinear or floral design category and is defined by a central diamond figure interwoven with a medallion which joins another medallion and another.
• These rugs are popular and are typically seen the most in areas of Iran. This design originated in the city of Herat which is now a part of Afghanistan, but was once a part of the Persian Empire.

Pictorial Design

The final type of design for Persian rugs is the pictorial design.

• This design is extremely rare to see in Persian rugs. This is probably because, due to the handmade quality of all Persian rugs, the pictorial design is the hardest to accomplish and requires much work and concentration by the designer.
• The style or design of the Persian rug first originated in Iran hundreds of years ago when writers, poets, and artists were looking for new forms of artistic expression. The rugs were created to show how proud the Persians were of their history and culture. 

So, now you know what the major designs of Persian rugs are and you can make a more educated decision when shopping for rugs.