Product Description
About This Ardabil Rug
This exquisite semi-antique Ardabil Persian rug, measuring 1'8" x 1'8", presents a magnificent Afshan all-over pattern that transforms even the smallest spaces with its intricate beauty. Dating from 40-60 years ago, this hand-knotted masterpiece showcases the exceptional craftsmanship of Ardabil weavers, who have perfected their art across generations in the mountainous regions of northwestern Persia, where the city of Ardabil serves as a sacred center of Sufi mysticism and carpet weaving excellence.
The historic city of Ardabil, nestled in the foothills of the Sabalan mountain, has been renowned for its carpet production since the 16th century, when Shah Tahmasp commissioned the famous Ardabil carpets now housed in London's Victoria and Albert Museum. This regional tradition continues in this remarkable piece, where the Afshan design creates an enchanting all-over field enhanced by delicate Herati motifs, known locally as "mahi" or fish patterns, symbolizing abundance and protection in Persian culture.
The sophisticated color palette reveals the masterful use of natural dyes that characterize authentic Ardabil rugs - deep navy blue forms the foundation, while madder red creates dramatic contrast, complemented by lustrous gold, warm cream, rich brick red, royal blue, earthy ochre, pristine ivory, and deep red accents. These colors, derived from traditional Persian dyeing techniques using madder root, indigo, and saffron, create a harmonious symphony that deepens with age and light.
The geometric precision of the Afshan pattern, interwoven with Herati motifs throughout the field, demonstrates the mathematical sophistication of Persian design philosophy, where each element serves both decorative and symbolic purposes. This one-of-a-kind hand-knotted rug elevates any space with its authentic Persian heritage, whether placed as an accent piece beside a reading chair, under a coffee table, or as a meditation focal point in a quiet corner.
At its compact 1'8" x 1'8" dimensions, this semi-antique Ardabil rug offers versatility for modern living spaces, perfect for entryways, powder rooms, beside beds, or as a collector's display piece. The combination of natural wool and cotton foundation, secured with both symmetrical and asymmetrical knotting techniques, ensures lasting durability while the traditional fringe adds authentic finishing touches. Los Angeles Home of Rugs presents this exceptional piece as a testament to Ardabil's enduring legacy in Persian carpet artistry, bringing centuries of cultural heritage into contemporary homes with timeless elegance and spiritual significance.
Placement Suggestions
Full Specifications
| Original Name | Ardabil Rug |
| Alternative Name | Ardabil Carpet, Ardebil Rug |
| Origin | Ardabil, Persia |
| Category | Village, City |
| Common Designs | Afshan (All-Over), Herati (Mahi), Geometric |
| Dyeing Method | Natural, Synthetic |
| Pile Material | Wool, Silk |
| Foundation Material | Cotton |
| Knot Type | Symmetrical (Ghiordes), Asymmetrical (Persian) |
| Trust Signals | 100% Authentic Hand-Knotted — Certificate of Authenticity included with every purchase |
| Availability | Only One Available — This exact rug is unique. Once sold it cannot be reordered or replicated |
Features
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this Ardabil rug genuinely hand-knotted?
Yes. This rug is 100% hand-knotted. Every single knot was tied individually by hand by a skilled weaver in Ardabil, Persia. It is not machine-made, hand-tufted, or hand-hooked. The knot structure is clearly visible on the reverse side of the rug, confirming its authentic hand-knotted construction.
What does the age classification mean for this Ardabil rug?
This Ardabil rug is classified as antique, meaning it is 100 years old or more. By international convention and U.S. Customs standards, a rug must be at least 100 years old to qualify as antique. Antique Persian rugs are the most prized category among collectors, valued for their historical significance, natural dye patina, aged wool softness, rarity, and the way their colors have mellowed and deepened beautifully over a century or more of careful use.
Where does the Ardabil rug originate?
This Ardabil rug originates from Ardabil, Persia. The Ardabil region has a long and distinguished history of rug weaving, with local artisans developing their own distinctive design vocabulary, color traditions, and technical approaches that set their rugs apart from other Persian weaving centers. The village, city rug category from this region is particularly known for its afshan (all-over), herati (mahi), geometric design traditions.
What knot type was used to weave this Ardabil rug?
This Ardabil rug was woven using both the asymmetrical Persian (Senneh) knot and the symmetrical Turkish (Ghiordes) knot. The asymmetrical Persian knot, which wraps around one warp thread, allows for finer curvilinear design detail. The symmetrical Turkish knot, which wraps around two warp threads, produces a more robust pile. The use of both techniques reflects the weaver's mastery and adaptability within the regional weaving tradition.
Is this rug one of a kind?
Yes. This is a one-of-a-kind piece. As an authentic hand-knotted Persian rug, no two examples are identical. Only one of this exact rug is available in our collection. Once sold, this specific piece cannot be reordered or replicated. Every hand-knotted Persian rug is a unique artifact of its weaver's skill, materials, and creative expression.
Does this rug come with a Certificate of Authenticity?
Yes. Every rug purchased from Los Angeles Home of Rugs includes a Certificate of Authenticity documenting the rug's origin, age, materials, construction method, and appraised value. This certificate is accepted by major U.S. insurance providers and supports resale, estate, and auction documentation.
How do I care for this wool, silk rug?
Vacuum gently without a beater bar once a week in the direction of the pile. Rotate the rug every 6 to 12 months to ensure even wear. For spills, blot immediately with a clean white cloth without rubbing. For deep cleaning, use a professional Persian rug cleaning specialist who uses hand-washing methods appropriate for natural wool, silk fibers and aged dyes. Avoid steam cleaning or harsh chemical treatments.
What is the shipping policy for this rug?
Los Angeles Home of Rugs offers free standard shipping on all orders to the contiguous 48 U.S. states and Washington D.C. For orders to Alaska, Hawaii, P.O. boxes, or international destinations, real-time shipping quotes are provided at checkout via UPS, FedEx, and USPS. All rugs are carefully rolled and packaged to ensure safe delivery.
What is your return policy?
We offer a 30-day hassle-free return policy on all rugs. If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, contact us within 30 days of delivery to arrange a return. Refunds are processed within 3 to 5 business days after we receive the returned rug in its original condition. Return shipping costs are the responsibility of the buyer unless the rug was received damaged or incorrectly described.
At Los Angeles Home of Rugs, we only stock hand-knotted rugs. We do not carry machine-made, hand-tufted, hand-hooked, or hand-woven rugs. Every rug in our collection is certified authentic and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity. Read More
