Product Description
About This Gholtogh Rug
This exceptional semi antique Gholtogh Persian rug measuring 4'7" x 3'3" showcases the masterful artistry of Zanjan province weavers from four to six decades past. The rich madder red field creates a stunning foundation for the intricate medallion (Toranj) centerpiece, while complementary tones of crimson, navy blue, and ivory frame the composition with remarkable sophistication. Forest green and emerald accents dance alongside ochre and gold highlights, creating a tapestry of colors that speaks to the weaver's profound understanding of natural dye traditions.
The Gholtogh weaving tradition emerges from the mountainous regions surrounding Zanjan, where Persian artisans have perfected their craft through generations of cultural heritage. These rugs gained prominence during the Qajar dynasty, when local tribal weavers began incorporating both nomadic geometric patterns and Persian court motifs into their work. The symmetrical Ghiordes knots employed in this piece reflect the technical precision that distinguishes authentic Gholtogh carpets, while the natural wool foundation provides the durability these rugs are renowned for throughout Persia.
The central medallion design represents the cosmic garden, a symbolic interpretation of paradise that has adorned Persian rugs for centuries. Surrounding Herati (Mahi) motifs, often called the "fish pattern," symbolize abundance and protection in Persian culture, their diamond shapes interlocking with delicate floral tendrils throughout the burgundy and dark red border elements. Black geometric accents provide structural definition, while cream highlights illuminate the intricate details that make each viewing reveal new artistic discoveries.
At 4'7" x 3'3" feet, this magnificent piece transforms intimate spaces with its bold yet balanced color palette, making it ideal for cozy reading nooks, elegant entryways, or as an accent beneath antique furniture. The semi antique character brings authentic patina that cannot be replicated, while the compact dimensions ensure versatility in modern Persian decor arrangements. Los Angeles Home of Rugs proudly presents this remarkable example of Zanjan craftsmanship, where traditional motifs meet contemporary living spaces.
This one-of-a-kind hand-knotted masterpiece elevates any interior with its authentic Persian heritage, combining the warmth of natural materials with the timeless appeal of geometric and floral artistry. The brown undertones provide earthy grounding, while the interplay of warm and cool hues creates visual depth that changes beautifully throughout the day as natural light shifts across its meticulously crafted surface.
Placement Suggestions
Full Specifications
| Original Name | Gholtogh Rug |
| Alternative Name | Gholtogh Carpet, Hamadan Rug, Mosul Rug |
| Origin | Zanjan, Persia |
| Category | Village |
| Common Designs | Medallion (Toranj), Herati (Mahi), Geometric |
| Dyeing Method | Natural, Synthetic |
| Pile Material | Wool |
| Foundation Material | Cotton, Wool |
| 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 Gholtogh 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 Gholtogh rug?
This Gholtogh 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 Gholtogh rug originate?
This Gholtogh 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), herati (mahi), geometric design traditions.
What knot type was used to weave this Gholtogh rug?
This Gholtogh 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
