Product Description
About This Zanjan Rug
This exquisite semi antique Zanjan Persian rug, measuring 6'3" x 3'1", showcases the masterful artistry of northwestern Persian weavers through its rich madder red field adorned with traditional medallion and Herati motifs. The striking crimson and dark red tones create a dramatic foundation, while navy blue, ivory, black, burgundy, and wine red accents form an intricate tapestry of geometric precision that speaks to four decades of careful aging and natural patina development.
Zanjan province, situated in the mountainous regions of northwestern Persia, has been renowned for centuries as a center of exceptional rug weaving, where Kurdish and Azeri tribal traditions merged with Persian court designs. The city's strategic position along ancient trade routes allowed local artisans to incorporate diverse cultural influences while maintaining their distinctive weaving techniques, characterized by dense knotting and bold geometric interpretations of classical Persian motifs. This particular region's weavers became celebrated for their ability to create rugs that balanced nomadic vitality with urban sophistication.
The central medallion, known as toranj in Persian weaving terminology, represents the cosmic center and divine protection, while the surrounding Herati pattern (mahi) features stylized fish motifs symbolizing abundance and prosperity. These interlocking geometric elements create a mesmerizing visual rhythm across the rug's surface, with each wine red and burgundy accent carefully positioned to enhance the overall compositional harmony. The symmetrical Ghiordes knots employed in this piece ensure exceptional durability and the crisp definition of each intricate design element.
The deep madder red foundation, achieved through traditional plant-based dyes extracted from the madder root, provides a warm and inviting presence that complements both traditional and contemporary interior spaces. This compact 6'3" x 3'1" foot size makes it ideal for hallways, entryways, small dining areas, or as an accent piece in larger rooms where its rich color palette can serve as a focal point. At Los Angeles Home of Rugs, this authentic piece represents the perfect balance of historical significance and practical functionality for discerning collectors.
As a one-of-a-kind hand-knotted masterpiece that has gracefully aged over 40-60 years, this Zanjan rug transforms any space into a gallery of Persian cultural heritage, where every crimson thread and navy blue accent tells the story of generations of skilled artisans who preserved these ancient weaving traditions through their dedication to excellence.
Placement Suggestions
Full Specifications
| Original Name | Zanjan Rug |
| Alternative Name | Zanjan Carpet |
| Origin | Zanjan, Persia |
| Category | Village |
| Common Designs | Medallion (Toranj), Herati (Mahi), Geometric |
| 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), herati (mahi), geometric 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
