Product Description
About This Zanjan Rug
This magnificent semi antique Zanjan Persian rug, measuring 7'7" x 4'3", showcases the masterful weaving traditions of northwestern Persia through its commanding medallion design and rich tapestry of madder red, navy blue, and crimson hues. The central toranj (medallion) blooms with intricate geometric precision, surrounded by the beloved Herati pattern known as "mahi" or fish motif, creating a visual feast that has captivated collectors for generations.
Zanjan province, nestled in the mountainous regions of northwestern Persia, has been renowned for its exceptional carpet weaving since the Safavid era. The city's strategic position along ancient trade routes brought together diverse cultural influences, resulting in distinctive designs that blend traditional Persian motifs with regional geometric interpretations. Local weavers developed their own vocabulary of patterns, using symmetrical Ghiordes knots to create carpets of remarkable durability and artistic merit.
The medallion design represents the cosmic order in Persian philosophy, with the central toranj symbolizing the sun or divine light radiating outward through carefully orchestrated borders and corner elements. The Herati pattern, with its diamond-shaped palmettes connected by curved stems and small fish, speaks to abundance and protection, while the geometric elements reflect the mathematical precision valued in Persian artistic expression. These motifs work in harmony across the madder red field, accented by deep navy blue, burgundy, and touches of ochre and cream.
The sophisticated color palette draws from natural dyes that have mellowed beautifully over four to six decades, with the madder red base providing warmth and richness that complements both traditional and contemporary interiors. The burnt orange and ochre highlights add depth and luminosity, while the navy blue and black create striking contrast against the cream accents. This one-of-a-kind hand-knotted masterpiece elevates any space with its authentic Persian craftsmanship and timeless elegance.
Perfect for a study, living room, or bedroom, this 7'7" x 4'3" foot treasure from Los Angeles Home of Rugs brings the artistic heritage of Zanjan into your home, where its semi antique character and expert craftsmanship will be appreciated for generations to come.
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
