Product Description
About This Shiraz Rug
This exquisite antique Shiraz Persian rug at 4'8" x 3'6" presents a captivating medallion centerpiece surrounded by intricate geometric patterns that speak to six decades of artistic heritage. The rich madder red foundation creates a warm canvas for the elaborate toranj (medallion) design, while dark red borders frame the composition with traditional precision. Cream and ivory accents dance throughout the field, creating luminous pathways that guide the eye through the complex geometric narrative, enhanced by subtle touches of brown and ochre that add depth and authenticity to this remarkable piece.
From the mountainous Fars province surrounding the ancient city of Shiraz, this rug carries the nomadic weaving traditions of the Qashqai and Khamseh tribes who have traversed these lands for centuries. The city of Shiraz, renowned as the cultural heart of Persia and birthplace of legendary poets Hafez and Saadi, has long been a gathering place where tribal weavers would bring their finest carpets to market. The asymmetrical Persian knots combined with symmetrical Ghiordes knots in this piece reflect the diverse tribal influences that converged in Shiraz's bustling bazaars, creating a distinctive weaving style that balances nomadic spontaneity with urban sophistication.
The medallion pattern represents the cosmic order and divine protection in Persian culture, with the central toranj symbolizing the dome of heaven surrounded by earthly gardens. The geometric motifs that radiate outward tell stories of tribal migration routes, mountain passes, and seasonal campsites, each angular form carrying meaning passed down through generations of master weavers. The interplay between the bold medallion and surrounding geometric elements creates a visual tension that captures the eye while maintaining perfect balance, a hallmark of authentic Shiraz craftsmanship that demonstrates the weaver's deep understanding of both artistic composition and cultural symbolism.
The color palette reveals the sophisticated dyeing techniques of Persian artisans, with the dominant madder red derived from the roots of the madder plant that grows abundantly in the Fars region. Dark red accents deepen the overall warmth while cream and ivory highlights, achieved through careful wool preparation and natural mordants, provide brilliant contrast that makes each geometric element sing with clarity. The brown and ochre tones ground the composition with earthy wisdom, creating a color harmony that speaks to both the natural landscape of southern Persia and the refined aesthetic sensibilities of Shiraz's urban workshops.
Perfect for intimate spaces, this 4'8" x 3'6" foot treasure works beautifully as an accent piece in studies, reading nooks, or as a sophisticated focal point in smaller living areas where its compact size allows every intricate detail to be appreciated. At Los Angeles Home of Rugs, we recognize that this one-of-a-kind hand-knotted masterpiece elevates any space with its authentic Persian character and six decades of accumulated patina. The natural wool and cotton foundation, enhanced by traditional fringe work, ensures this antique beauty will continue to grace homes for generations while maintaining its structural integrity and artistic magnificence that only comes from the skilled hands of master Persian weavers.
Placement Suggestions
Full Specifications
| Original Name | Shiraz Rug |
| Alternative Name | Shiraz Carpet |
| Origin | Fars, Persia |
| Category | Village, Nomadic |
| Common Designs | Medallion (Toranj), Geometric, Tribal and Nomadic |
| Dyeing Method | Natural, Synthetic |
| Pile Material | Wool |
| Foundation Material | Cotton, Wool, Goat Hair |
| Knot Type | Asymmetrical (Persian), 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 Shiraz rug genuinely hand-knotted?
Yes. This rug is 100% hand-knotted. Every single knot was tied individually by hand by a skilled weaver in Fars, 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 Shiraz rug?
This Shiraz 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 Shiraz rug originate?
This Shiraz rug originates from Fars, Persia. The Fars 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, tribal and nomadic design traditions.
What knot type was used to weave this Shiraz rug?
This Shiraz 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 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
