Tabriz Rugs

Design

Tabriz has joined the ancient weaving techniques with designs inspired by medieval manuscript illuminators and other artists of the time. These rugs have some of the most unique and diverse patterns found in Persian rugs. The most common motifs include intricate designs resembling fine lace, large palmettes, vases and dense floral images with winding tendrils.

Most Tabriz rugs have a curvilinear design which may include a central medallion while some rectilinear designs can be found. A common border feature is a series of small medallions with inscriptions in Persian characters.

The Tabriz rug artisans are rightfully proud of their craftsmanship and often weave their signature into a small area in the border of the rug.

Colors

Tabriz rugs have a wide color range as well, with many hues used in a rug. Shades vary from delicate pastels to bold and striking. The most common background colors are soft shades of ivory, beige, camel, peach and pink. Vegetable rather than chemical dyes are used. 

Construction

Though the symmetrical Turkish knot is more common, Tabriz rugs utilize both the Turkish and Persian knots and are double wefted. The better Tabriz rugs are distinguished by a very precise and tight weave that is very durable.  The bazaar quality rugs are made with about 75 KPSI (knots per square inch) whereas the finest rugs have as many as 500 KPSI or more.

Fibers

Fine Tabriz rugs are most commonly made a cotton foundation and a pile woven of a blend of wool and silk. The most luxurious rugs often have a foundation of pure silk and a pile of Kurk wool (lamb' wool) and silk.  Medium quality rugs have a wool pile.

Sizes

While Tabriz rugs are typically made in the midsize range of 4X6 feet to 8X10 feet, larger rugs of up to 10X18 feet can be found.

Sub styles

Naqsheh (meaning pattern) - Incorporates tones of pinks on beige, or occasionally black making it the most spectacular of the Tabriz rugs.

Tabatabaie - Hunting scenes are common in this style with bright colors of orange and lime green on a beige background being very typical.

Whichever style of Tabriz rug you select you can be sure to have the ultimate in elegance and sophistication.