Product Description
About This Karaja Rug
This magnificent semi antique Karaja Persian rug measuring 10'6" x 3'3" presents an extraordinary medallion composition rendered in the distinctive palette of madder red, navy blue, and ivory that defines this celebrated weaving tradition from northwestern Persia. The elongated proportions of this exceptional piece make it perfectly suited for hallways, gallery spaces, or as a stunning runner that guides the eye through transitional areas while commanding attention with its bold geometric medallion pattern and rich burgundy undertones.
Karaja rugs originate from the mountainous villages surrounding the ancient city of Heriz in Persian Azerbaijan, where nomadic and semi-nomadic weavers have practiced their craft for centuries along ancient trade routes. The distinctive weaving style of Karaja reflects the harsh beauty of its highland environment, with bold geometric interpretations of traditional Persian motifs that speak to the practical needs and artistic sensibilities of tribal life. These rugs gained prominence during the late 19th and early 20th centuries when Persian carpet merchants recognized their unique character and began featuring them in international markets.
The central medallion, known as toranj in Persian weaving terminology, dominates this semi antique masterpiece with its angular geometric interpretation that exemplifies the Karaja aesthetic. Surrounding geometric patterns flow outward in rhythmic repetition, creating a visual harmony enhanced by the interplay of dark red, black, and ochre accents that punctuate the primary color scheme. This particular medallion design represents the cosmic center in Persian symbolism, while the geometric border patterns serve as protective barriers that contain and amplify the rug's spiritual energy.
The color palette of this semi antique Karaja reflects the natural dye traditions of Persian Azerbaijan, where madder root produces the distinctive red tones, indigo creates the deep navy blue passages, and local minerals contribute the ivory and ochre highlights. The subtle variations in rust red and burgundy tones across the field demonstrate the hand-spinning process and natural wool characteristics that give each section its unique personality. Los Angeles Home of Rugs presents this exceptional piece as a testament to the enduring appeal of authentic Persian craftsmanship.
This one-of-a-kind hand-knotted masterpiece transforms any interior setting with its confident presence and sophisticated color harmony, making it an ideal choice for contemporary homes that appreciate the intersection of traditional artistry and modern design sensibility. The runner proportions allow for versatile placement options, from defining entryways to creating visual continuity in open floor plans, while the semi antique patina adds depth and character that only decades of careful aging can achieve.
Placement Suggestions
Full Specifications
| Original Name | Karaja Rug |
| Alternative Name | Karaja Carpet, Karadja Rug |
| Origin | Azerbaijan, Persia |
| Category | Village, Nomadic |
| Common Designs | Medallion (Toranj), 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 Karaja rug genuinely hand-knotted?
Yes. This rug is 100% hand-knotted. Every single knot was tied individually by hand by a skilled weaver in Azerbaijan, 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 Karaja rug?
This Karaja 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 Karaja rug originate?
This Karaja rug originates from Azerbaijan, Persia. The Azerbaijan 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, nomadic rug category from this region is particularly known for its medallion (toranj), geometric design traditions.
What knot type was used to weave this Karaja rug?
This Karaja 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
