Hamadan: Rugs from the heart of Persia

Rugs made in the western region of Iran, around the ancient city of Hamadan, are among the most versatile and durable Oriental rugs available today. These rugs, which have a long history of craftsmanship, combine timeless elegance with remarkable resilience, making them equally at home in modern and classic living spaces. Their ability to create a cosy yet stylish atmosphere makes them a popular choice for many different applications.

What makes Hamadan so special

Hamadan is located around 300 km west of Tehran and is also the generic term for a wide range of rugs that are hand-knotted in the surrounding villages and towns. This region, characterised by ethnic diversity and a wealth of knotting traditions, produces rugs that can vary greatly in terms of design, quality, and density. From simple designs suitable for everyday use to fine, elaborate examples often known by specific place names such as Nahavand, Malayer, Toiserkan, and Enjilas, Hamadan covers a wide spectrum in the field of knotted Persian rugs.

The Shahr-baff is also found here; a term that refers to exclusive rugs that are knotted in urban or city-like environments. They are characterised by a delicate weave and more complex motifs, which, not least older Hamadan rugs of this type, make them particularly sought-after pieces among collectors and enthusiasts.

From wool to rug

Both hand-spun and industrially manufactured fibres are used in their production, depending on the desired level of the end product. While luxurious Persian rugs are often knotted on cotton warps and made of fine virgin wool, which gives the Oriental rug a special suppleness, cheaper versions often use machine-spun yarns and simpler dyeing techniques.

These are produced in the numerous villages around the Hamadan region and then sold in the city, which is considered one of the most important centres of the Iranian rug trade. The handcrafted production guarantees the high quality and authenticity of each individual rug. The use of durable wool, combined with a high knot density, makes these rugs particularly resistant to wear and tear, making them a long-lasting investment for any household.

Geometry and florals

Oriental rugs are known for their diverse and often elaborate designs, which are influenced by the different knotting traditions of the region. Typically, medallions, geometric structures such as diamonds, and repeated shapes (repeat patterns) dominate, giving the rugs a harmonious and balanced look. Particularly noteworthy is the Herati pattern; a classic motif that combines floral elements and diamonds and is found frequently. Despite the prevailing geometric designs, floral drawings such as stylised flowers and tendrils are also not uncommon, adding an additional decorative touch to the rugs.

Traditional rugs patterns and their meanings 

Naturally beautiful colours - blue, red, and more

The colour palette of Persian rugs is as diverse as their styles and reflects the natural resources of the region. Traditionally, rich blues, derived from the indigo plant, and warm reds, from the madder root, dominate. These vibrant primary colours, which provide beautiful contrast, are often complemented by ivory and beige highlights from walnut shells, which add depth and contrast to the patterns while creating a harmonious balance. They are biodegradable and durable. The use of natural dyes not only adds to the aesthetic appeal of the rugs but also ensures that the tones age beautifully over time, developing an appealing patina.

They are often a sign of ethical and sustainable handcrafted products. These practices support traditional artisan communities and help preserve ancestral techniques that are increasingly threatened by industrial manufacturing methods. These techniques have been used for centuries and are a sign of the high level of craftsmanship and knowledge that is passed down from generation to generation. The manual dyeing of the yarns also contributes to the uniqueness of each rug, as the shades may vary slightly, thus emphasising the handcrafted character.

Shiny Persian rugs for all rooms

The hand-knotted rugs, known for their robustness and durability, are ideal for high-traffic areas of the home, such as hallways and entryways, where they serve not only as a decorative element but also withstand daily wear and tear. They also create a warm and welcoming atmosphere in living rooms and dining rooms, while their soft texture and soothing tones create a cosy and relaxing environment in bedrooms. Their versatility makes them suitable for almost any room in the house, adding a touch of oriental spirit.

Wide range of formats

Hamadan rugs are available in a wide range of sizes and shapes to suit different requirements and preferences. From smaller rugs that look perfect in narrow corridors or in entrance areas, to large rugs that can act as a central eye-catcher in a living room, they offer numerous interior design options. Most rugs are rectangular; however, there are also square and round variants that fit harmoniously into various room concepts.

In the classic style, you will also find the rugs in our shop in the so-called Saronim sizes. This term is common in Persian rug tradition and corresponds approximately to 1.5 x 1 metre. These dimensions were formerly used for seating, or they were used for ceremonial and cultural purposes. Saronim rugs are particularly practical for special placements, such as in entrance areas or as accent pieces in living rooms and bedrooms.

Easy-care Oriental rugs

Caring for Hamadan rugs is relatively straightforward, but a few basic rules should be followed to preserve their beauty and longevity. Regular vacuuming, ideally without a brush attachment, removes dust and dirt particles that can get stuck in the pile. Stains require a quick response: these should be carefully dabbed with a damp cloth and not rubbed to avoid damaging the fibres. A professional cleaning every few years is recommended to remove stubborn dirt and refresh the colouring without affecting the natural patina of the rugs.

Hamadan rugs – style and tradition combined

Rugs from Hamadan are an excellent choice for those who appreciate classic beauty. Their variety of patterns and tones, as well as their careful craftsmanship, make them an outstanding example of oriental rug art that fits into both classic and modern interior design styles. Their robust nature and aesthetic versatility make them not only a practical floor covering, but also a decorative highlight that enhances any room and creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Add a piece of Oriental soul and craftsmanship to your home that can last for generations.

FAQ

What are the special characteristics of rugs from the West?

The city of Hamadan is located around 300 km west of Tehran. The multitude of villages in the province generally produce high-quality utility rugs. They enjoy a good reputation, and are hand-knotted and decorated with patterns that feature geometric and floral designs. The use of high-quality virgin wool and traditional craftsmanship, which is common for Persian rugs, makes them durable and hard-wearing.

Are they a good choice for high-traffic areas?

Yes, due to the great expertise in using robust materials and dense knotting, they are excellent for high-traffic areas such as hallways, entryways, and living rooms. They withstand daily wear and tear and retain their shape and colouring for many years, making them a practical and long-lasting choice.

What patterns and colours are typical?

Typical motifs include geometric shapes, medallions, and the Herati pattern, which consists of diamonds and floral elements. The colours are predominantly strong reds and blues, which are clearly Persian and produced using natural dyes such as indigo and plant dyes (e.g. madder). Beige and ivory tones, often obtained from walnut shells, round off the colour palette and create harmonious contrasts.

How should the rugs be cared for?

They are relatively easy to care for. Regular vacuuming without a brush attachment helps to remove dust and dirt. Stains should be dabbed immediately with a damp cloth without rubbing, to avoid damaging the fibres. Professional cleaning every few years can help to refresh the colour spectrum and remove ingrained dirt. When well cared for, they can be passed down to future generations as heirlooms.