Product Description
About This Mahal Rug
This magnificent semi antique Mahal Persian rug presents an exquisite fusion of traditional Kheshti garden motifs and intricate Herati patterns across its generous 8'10" x 5'11" canvas. The rich red field blazes with warmth while ivory, navy blue, and burgundy accents create stunning visual depth, complemented by subtle rust red, cream, pink, and terracotta highlights that speak to four decades of graceful aging. Each asymmetrical Persian knot tells the story of master weavers from the Markazi province, where the ancient art of rug making has flourished for centuries in the shadow of the Alborz Mountains.
The historic city of Mahal, nestled in central Persia's fertile valleys, became renowned in the 19th century for producing rugs that perfectly balanced artistic sophistication with everyday durability. Local artisans developed their distinctive style by incorporating influences from nearby Isfahan while maintaining their own regional character, creating pieces that could grace both village homes and royal palaces. The wool used in these rugs came from highland sheep whose fleece possessed exceptional strength and luster, while cotton foundations provided the structural integrity that allows these masterpieces to endure for generations.
The Kheshti garden design adorning this rug represents the Persian concept of paradise on earth, with geometric compartments symbolizing the four rivers of Eden flowing through an eternal garden. Within each section, the delicate Herati fish motifs swim through stylized foliage, their ancient symbolism representing abundance and protection from the evil eye. This particular specimen showcases the Afshan all-over pattern technique, where decorative elements cascade across the entire field in harmonious repetition, creating a sense of infinite beauty that draws the eye deeper with each viewing.
The sophisticated color palette speaks to the natural dyes and aging process that only authentic Persian rugs possess, with the primary red symbolizing joy and celebration while the navy blue represents wisdom and tranquility. Burgundy tones add royal dignity, while cream and ivory highlights create breathing space that prevents the design from becoming overwhelming. This one-of-a-kind hand-knotted treasure elevates any interior space with its perfect balance of traditional artistry and timeless elegance, making it an ideal choice for Los Angeles Home of Rugs' discerning clientele who appreciate authentic Persian craftsmanship.
Placement Suggestions
Full Specifications
| Original Name | Mahal Rug |
| Alternative Name | Mahal Carpet, Mahallat Rug |
| Origin | Markazi, Persia |
| Category | Village |
| Common Designs | Kheshti (Garden), Herati (Mahi), Afshan (All-Over) |
| Dyeing Method | Natural, Synthetic |
| Pile Material | Wool, Silk |
| Foundation Material | Cotton, Silk |
| Knot Type | Asymmetrical (Persian) |
| 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 Mahal rug genuinely hand-knotted?
Yes. This rug is 100% hand-knotted. Every single knot was tied individually by hand by a skilled weaver in Markazi, 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 Mahal rug?
This Mahal 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 Mahal rug originate?
This Mahal rug originates from Markazi, Persia. The Markazi 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 kheshti (garden), herati (mahi), afshan (all-over) design traditions.
What knot type was used to weave this Mahal rug?
This Mahal 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, silk 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, silk 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
