Product Description
About This Zanjan Rug
This magnificent semi antique Zanjan Persian rug, measuring 14'3" x 3'5", presents a stunning medallion composition that has graced Persian homes for generations. The elongated proportions make it an exceptional runner piece, perfect for hallways, galleries, or as a dramatic accent beneath console tables. Woven between 40-60 years ago, this piece carries the authentic patina and character that only time can bestow upon hand-knotted wool.
Zanjan, located in northwestern Persia, has been renowned for centuries as a center of exceptional carpet weaving. The region's strategic position along ancient trade routes brought diverse cultural influences that enriched local artistic traditions. Zanjan weavers developed their distinctive style during the Safavid dynasty, combining geometric precision with flowing medallion designs. The city's harsh winters and abundant wool from highland sheep contributed to the creation of particularly durable and lustrous carpets that became prized throughout the Persian Empire.
The central medallion, known as toranj in Persian, dominates this rug's composition with its intricate diamond lattice framework. Surrounded by complementary geometric borders, the medallion represents cosmic unity and divine protection in Persian symbolism. The diamond patterns within create a mesmerizing visual rhythm that draws the eye inward, while the geometric elements maintain perfect symmetry throughout the field. This masterpiece is a one-of-a-kind hand-knotted creation that elevates any space with its timeless sophistication.
The rich color palette speaks to the Persian mastery of natural dyes, with deep crimson and navy blue forming the primary foundation. Dark red accents provide warmth and depth, while strategic touches of black create dramatic contrast. Cream highlights illuminate the intricate details, and burgundy tones add complexity to the overall composition. These colors were achieved using traditional methods including madder root for reds, indigo for blues, and pomegranate rind for yellows, creating hues that have maintained their vibrancy across decades.
In contemporary interiors, this narrow format makes it ideal for defining spaces and creating visual flow between rooms. Whether placed in a long hallway, beside a dining table, or as a dramatic accent in a modern living space, its semi antique character brings authenticity and warmth. Los Angeles Home of Rugs presents this exceptional piece as part of our curated collection of genuine Persian masterworks, each selected for its historical significance and enduring beauty.
Placement Suggestions
Full Specifications
| Original Name | Zanjan Rug |
| Alternative Name | Zanjan Carpet |
| Origin | Zanjan, Persia |
| Category | Village |
| Common Designs | Medallion (Toranj), Geometric, Diamond Lattice |
| 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, diamond lattice 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
