Product Description
About This Zanjan Rug
This extraordinary semi antique Zanjan Persian rug showcases the perfect balance of tradition and artistry in its distinctive 10'2" x 3'7" format. Woven with meticulous precision using symmetrical Ghiordes knots, this magnificent piece displays the timeless medallion (Toranj) centerpiece surrounded by intricate Herati (Mahi) motifs that flow gracefully across the field. The rich madder red foundation creates a striking backdrop for the navy blue, crimson, rust red, orange, black, cream, and gold accents that bring depth and character to every inch of this remarkable textile.
The ancient city of Zanjan in northwestern Persia has been renowned for its exceptional rug weaving for over five centuries, where master craftsmen have passed down sacred techniques through generations. This particular region's weavers developed a distinctive style that combines the geometric precision of tribal designs with the sophisticated elegance of court carpets, creating pieces that embody both strength and refinement. The semi antique status of this rug, aged between 40-60 years, adds a beautiful patina and softness that only comes with time and careful preservation of traditional weaving methods.
The central medallion represents the cosmic order and divine protection in Persian culture, while the surrounding Herati pattern symbolizes abundance and fertility through its stylized fish and rosette motifs. Each geometric element has been carefully positioned to create visual harmony and spiritual significance, transforming this rug into more than mere floor covering but a work of cultural art. The intricate border work features complementary geometric patterns that frame the design with architectural precision, showcasing the weaver's mastery of color gradation and spatial composition.
The sophisticated color palette draws from natural dyes that have mellowed beautifully over decades, creating subtle variations and depth that machine-made rugs cannot replicate. The dominant madder red evokes warmth and hospitality, while the navy blue provides grounding stability, and the cream highlights add luminous accents throughout the design. Los Angeles Home of Rugs proudly presents this exceptional piece that represents the pinnacle of Persian textile artistry.
This one-of-a-kind hand-knotted masterpiece transforms any hallway, kitchen, or narrow space into an gallery of Persian elegance, elevating the entire atmosphere with its rich heritage and stunning visual impact. The runner format makes it ideal for corridors, galley kitchens, or as a dramatic accent beneath console tables, while the semi antique character ensures that each thread tells a story of Persian craftsmanship and cultural legacy.
Placement Suggestions
Full Specifications
| Original Name | Zanjan Rug |
| Alternative Name | Zanjan Carpet |
| Origin | Zanjan, Persia |
| Category | Village |
| Common Designs | Medallion (Toranj), Herati (Mahi), Geometric |
| Dyeing Method | Natural, Synthetic |
| Pile Material | Wool |
| Foundation Material | Cotton |
| Knot Type | Symmetrical (Ghiordes) |
| 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 Zanjan rug genuinely hand-knotted?
Yes. This rug is 100% hand-knotted. Every single knot was tied individually by hand by a skilled weaver in Zanjan, 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 Zanjan rug?
This Zanjan 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 Zanjan rug originate?
This Zanjan rug originates from Zanjan, Persia. The Zanjan 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 rug category from this region is particularly known for its medallion (toranj), herati (mahi), geometric design traditions.
What knot type was used to weave this Zanjan rug?
This Zanjan rug was woven using the symmetrical Turkish knot, also known as the Ghiordes knot. In this technique, the pile yarn is looped symmetrically around two adjacent warp threads, producing a more robust and raised pile than the asymmetrical Persian knot. This knotting technique is characteristic of some Kurdish, Caucasian, and tribal Persian weaving traditions.
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 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 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
