Product Description
About This Zanjan Rug
This extraordinary semi antique Zanjan Persian rug showcases the masterful artistry of northwestern Persian weavers in its perfectly proportioned 10'5" x 3'3" dimensions. The stunning medallion centerpiece, known as Toranj in Persian, commands attention with its intricate geometric framework rendered in rich madder red against a luminous navy blue field. Crimson accents dance throughout the design while ivory highlights create brilliant contrast, complemented by warm gold undertones that speak to generations of weaving expertise passed down through Zanjan's renowned carpet-making families.
The historic city of Zanjan, strategically positioned along ancient Silk Road trade routes in northwestern Persia, has cultivated a distinctive weaving tradition spanning over four centuries. Local artisans developed their own interpretation of classical Persian motifs, incorporating bold geometric patterns with the beloved Herati fish design that flows gracefully around the central medallion. This particular rug represents the golden age of Zanjan production from the mid-20th century, when master weavers achieved perfect harmony between traditional techniques and evolving artistic expression, creating pieces that would become treasured heirlooms.
The medallion design holds profound symbolic meaning in Persian culture, representing the cosmos and the eternal cycle of life, while the surrounding geometric patterns create a sense of ordered harmony and protection. Persian blue details interweave with rust red accents throughout the Herati border, creating visual depth that draws the eye inward toward the magnificent central motif. The natural wool foundation, hand-knotted using the time-honored symmetrical Ghiordes technique, ensures both durability and the distinctive texture that makes authentic Persian rugs so coveted by collectors and interior designers alike.
This one-of-a-kind hand-knotted masterpiece elevates any space with its remarkable presence, transforming ordinary hallways, entryways, or galley kitchens into sophisticated showcases of Persian artistry. The runner's elongated proportions make it ideal for connecting spaces while the rich color palette of madder red, navy blue, and golden beige coordinates beautifully with both traditional and contemporary furnishings. Los Angeles Home of Rugs carefully selects each Zanjan piece for its exceptional quality and authentic character, ensuring that discerning collectors acquire genuine examples of this celebrated weaving tradition.
The semi antique status of this 40-60 year old rug adds tremendous value and character, as the natural aging process has mellowed the colors to their current magnificent depth while the hand-spun wool has developed the lustrous patina that only comes with time and careful use. Whether gracing a formal dining room, sophisticated bedroom, or elegant hallway, this Zanjan runner brings warmth, history, and unparalleled craftsmanship to any interior setting, creating an atmosphere of refined luxury that speaks to centuries of Persian artistic achievement.
Placement Suggestions
Full Specifications
| Original Name | Zanjan Rug |
| Alternative Name | Zanjan Carpet |
| Origin | Zanjan, Persia |
| Category | Village |
| Common Designs | Medallion (Toranj), Geometric, Herati (Mahi) |
| 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), geometric, herati (mahi) 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
