Product Description
About This Ardabil Rug
This exceptional semi-antique Ardabil Persian rug measuring 11'1" x 3'8" showcases the masterful artistry of Persian weavers through its intricate Kheshti garden design combined with geometric medallion motifs. Aged gracefully over four to six decades, this hand-knotted treasure displays the rich patina that only time can bestow upon authentic Persian craftsmanship. The elongated runner format makes it perfectly suited for hallways, galley kitchens, or as an elegant accent beneath console tables where its narrow width allows for comfortable foot traffic while adding sophisticated warmth to any space.
The historic city of Ardabil, nestled in northwestern Persia near the Caspian Sea, has been renowned for centuries as a center of exceptional rug weaving, where master artisans have passed down their techniques through countless generations. This region's strategic position along ancient trade routes brought influences from various cultures, resulting in the distinctive design vocabulary seen in Ardabil rugs. The mountainous terrain and harsh winters of this area produced sheep with particularly lustrous wool, which Persian weavers prized for creating rugs of exceptional durability and beauty. The Safavid dynasty's patronage of Ardabil as a religious center further elevated the artistic standards of local craftsmen, establishing traditions that continue to this day.
The Kheshti or garden design featured in this remarkable piece represents one of Persia's most beloved artistic concepts, symbolizing the earthly manifestation of paradise through geometric interpretations of flowering gardens and flowing water. The central medallion motif, known as Toranj, serves as the focal point around which smaller geometric elements dance in perfect harmony. These time-honored patterns were not merely decorative but carried deep spiritual significance, representing the order and beauty that Persian culture saw as reflections of divine creation. Each knot was carefully placed to contribute to this larger symbolic narrative, creating a visual poem in wool that speaks to both aesthetic sensibility and cultural heritage.
The magnificent color palette of this Ardabil rug creates a symphony of warm and cool tones that complement virtually any interior design scheme. Rich madder red and crimson tones dominate the field, their intensity softened by the inclusion of brick red variations that add depth and complexity. Deep navy blue provides elegant contrast and grounding, while cream and beige elements offer breathing space and highlight the intricate geometric details. Subtle black accents define the borders and design elements, creating crisp definition that enhances the overall visual impact. This sophisticated color combination works beautifully with both traditional and contemporary furnishings, making it a versatile choice for discerning decorators.
As a one-of-a-kind hand-knotted masterpiece, this semi-antique Ardabil rug elevates any interior with its authentic Persian character and remarkable craftsmanship. Los Angeles Home of Rugs proudly presents this exceptional piece, which represents not just a floor covering but a tangible piece of Persian cultural heritage. The natural wool construction ensures longevity while providing the soft texture underfoot that makes Persian rugs so treasured. Whether placed in a formal dining room, elegant foyer, or sophisticated bedroom, this Ardabil runner will serve as a conversation piece that connects your home to the rich artistic traditions of ancient Persia.
Placement Suggestions
Full Specifications
| Original Name | Ardabil Rug |
| Alternative Name | Ardabil Carpet, Ardebil Rug |
| Origin | Ardabil, Persia |
| Category | Village, City |
| Common Designs | Kheshti (Garden), Geometric, Medallion (Toranj) |
| 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 kheshti (garden), geometric, medallion (toranj) 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
