Product Description
About This Gholtogh Rug
This magnificent semi antique Gholtogh Persian rug at 5'1" x 3'5" showcases the masterful artistry of Zanjan province weavers, where the deep crimson and burgundy foundation creates a dramatic backdrop for the intricate medallion (Toranj) centerpiece surrounded by geometric motifs in navy blue, gold, and forest green. The compact yet impactful proportions make this 40-60 year old treasure perfect for accent placement, whether anchoring a reading nook, defining an entryway, or adding warmth beneath a coffee table in intimate seating arrangements.
The Gholtogh weaving tradition emerged from the mountainous regions near Zanjan, where Persian artisans developed their distinctive approach to medallion composition during the early 20th century. These rugs became renowned for their bold color palettes and geometric precision, with each piece representing the cultural heritage of nomadic tribes who settled in the area and adapted their traditional patterns to sedentary loom work. The symmetrical Ghiordes knotting technique employed in this rug creates the dense, durable foundation that has allowed it to maintain its vibrant character through decades of use.
The central medallion (Toranj) serves as both a focal point and symbolic representation of the eternal garden, while the surrounding geometric patterns echo ancient Persian cosmological beliefs about order and harmony in the universe. The interplay of warm crimsons and burgundies with cooler navy blue creates visual depth, while cream accents and gold highlights provide luminous contrast that draws the eye inward toward the medallion's intricate details. Each geometric border element carries traditional meaning, from protective symbols to representations of prosperity and spiritual growth.
This exceptional color combination of nine distinct hues demonstrates the weaver's sophisticated understanding of dye harmonies, where natural wool fibers have absorbed plant-based pigments to create the rich, complex tones that define Persian rug artistry. The forest green and brown elements provide earthy grounding, while black outlines define each pattern element with crisp precision. As a one-of-a-kind hand-knotted masterpiece, this rug transforms any space it graces, elevating the atmosphere with its authentic Persian character and time-honored craftsmanship that Los Angeles Home of Rugs takes pride in offering to discerning collectors and interior design enthusiasts.
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), 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), 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
