Product Description
About This Zanjan Rug
This exquisite semi-antique Zanjan Persian rug, measuring 6'9" x 3'4", showcases the masterful artistry of Persian weavers through its rich medallion design and stunning color palette. The rug's madder red foundation is beautifully complemented by deep crimson, navy blue, dark red, black, ochre, burgundy, and rust red tones, creating a harmonious symphony of earth-toned elegance. At 40-60 years old, this piece has developed the perfect patina that only authentic Persian rugs can achieve through decades of careful aging.
The city of Zanjan, located in northwestern Persia, has been renowned for its exceptional rug weaving traditions for over four centuries. Persian weavers in this region developed their distinctive style by combining influences from nearby Kurdish and Azerbaijani techniques, resulting in rugs known for their geometric precision and bold color contrasts. Zanjan workshops became particularly famous for their use of high-quality natural dyes, especially the coveted madder root that produces the deep, lasting reds seen in this magnificent piece. The symmetrical Ghiordes knot technique employed here represents generations of inherited knowledge passed down through Persian weaving families.
The central medallion, known as "Toranj" in Persian, serves as the focal point of this rug's sophisticated design narrative. Surrounding geometric patterns and Herati motifs create intricate borders that frame the composition with mathematical precision. The Herati pattern, also called "Mahi" meaning fish, symbolizes abundance and protection in Persian culture, while the geometric elements represent the eternal nature of divine creation. This interplay of symbolic motifs transforms the rug into more than mere decoration-it becomes a cultural artifact rich with meaning.
The carefully orchestrated color palette speaks to the Persian tradition of natural dye mastery, where each hue carries cultural significance. The dominant madder red represents strength and vitality, while the navy blue symbolizes wisdom and truth. Burgundy and rust tones add depth and warmth, creating visual layers that change subtly with varying light conditions throughout the day. These natural wool fibers, combined with cotton foundations, ensure durability while maintaining the soft, luxurious feel characteristic of authentic Persian craftsmanship.
Perfect for entryways, hallways, or as an accent piece in living spaces, this 6x3 ft size offers versatility without overwhelming smaller rooms. Available at Los Angeles Home of Rugs, this one-of-a-kind hand-knotted masterpiece elevates any interior with its timeless Persian elegance and authentic historical character. The natural aging process has enhanced the colors' richness while softening their intensity, creating the coveted antique appearance that design enthusiasts treasure in authentic Persian textiles.
Placement Suggestions
Full Specifications
| Original Name | Zanjan Rug |
| Alternative Name | Zanjan Carpet |
| Origin | Zanjan, Persia |
| Category | Village |
| Common Designs | Medallion (Toranj), Geometric, Herati (Mahi) |
| 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, herati (mahi) 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
