Product Description
About This Arak Rug
This magnificent semi antique Arak Persian rug at 10'4" x 5'2" showcases the refined artistry that has made the Markazi province's weavers legendary throughout Persia for over two centuries. The commanding madder red field creates a dramatic foundation for the intricate medallion (toranj) centerpiece, while navy blue and crimson accents dance throughout the composition alongside ivory, dark red, blue, cream, and burgundy details that speak to the weaver's masterful understanding of color harmony.
The historic city of Arak, nestled in Persia's central plateau, emerged as a major rug-producing center during the late 19th century when master weavers from Isfahan and Kashan relocated to this region, bringing with them centuries of accumulated knowledge and technique. This cultural migration created a unique weaving tradition that combined classical Persian design elements with the distinctive character of Markazi province craftsmanship, resulting in rugs renowned for their exceptional quality and artistic merit.
The central medallion design represents the cosmic order and divine protection in Persian culture, while the surrounding Herati (mahi) pattern-featuring fish motifs swimming around diamond shapes-symbolizes abundance and prosperity flowing through one's home. These ancient symbols, woven with asymmetrical Persian knots into pure natural wool and cotton, create not just a floor covering but a piece of living art that has absorbed four to six decades of history within its fibers.
The rich madder red ground, achieved through natural dyes extracted from the madder plant's roots, provides the perfect canvas for this rug's sophisticated color palette, where deep navy blue borders frame the composition while crimson highlights and ivory details create visual depth and movement. This one-of-a-kind hand-knotted masterpiece transforms any living space into an elegant sanctuary, whether anchoring a traditional sitting room, adding warmth to a contemporary bedroom, or creating a sophisticated focal point in a home office.
At Los Angeles Home of Rugs, we understand that a semi antique Arak rug of this caliber represents both an investment in timeless beauty and a connection to Persia's greatest weaving traditions, making it an ideal choice for discerning collectors who appreciate authentic craftsmanship and the stories woven into every knot.
Placement Suggestions
Full Specifications
| Original Name | Arak Rug |
| Alternative Name | Sultanabad Rug, Arak Carpet |
| Origin | Markazi, Persia |
| Category | City |
| Common Designs | Medallion (Toranj), Herati (Mahi) |
| Dyeing Method | Natural, Synthetic |
| Pile Material | Wool |
| Foundation Material | Cotton |
| Knot Type | 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 Arak rug genuinely hand-knotted?
Yes. This rug is 100% hand-knotted. Every single knot was tied individually by hand by a skilled weaver in Markazi, 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 Arak rug?
This Arak 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 Arak rug originate?
This Arak rug originates from Markazi, Persia. The Markazi 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 city rug category from this region is particularly known for its medallion (toranj), herati (mahi) design traditions.
What knot type was used to weave this Arak rug?
This Arak 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 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
