Nahavand
Nahavand rugs come from the Hamadan region and show a more open weave with bold geometric medallions.
- Region
- Persia / Iran
- Category
- Persian rugs
- Manufacturing
- Hand-knotted
- Knot density
- 80,000 – 160,000 knots/m²
Profile
- Manufacturing
- Hand-knotted
- Origin
- Iran — town of Nahavand, Hamadan Province
- Pile material
- Wool on cotton
- Knot density
- 80,000 – 160,000 knots/m²
- Features
- Single-weft, geometric medallions, vivid colors
Photo: Morgenland Rugs
Origin
Nahavand rugs come from the eponymous town of Nahavand in the Iranian province of Hamadan. The town lies about 60 kilometres south of the provincial capital Hamadan in western Persia. The region has been known for its rug knotting for centuries and belongs to the larger Hamadan rug belt. Nahavand was historically an important trading centre on the old Silk Road, which contributed to the development of local craftsmanship.
Characteristics
Nahavand rugs are distinguished by their characteristic geometric patterns. Typical are the HeratiHeratiKlassisches Muster aus einem Rautenrahmen mit zentraler Rosette und vier gebogenen Blättern (Fisch-Motiv). Sehr verbreitet in persischen Dorfteppichen.Read in glossary → design with its repeating fish-bone motifs and floral ornaments on mostly dark-blue or red grounds. The borders frequently show classical Persian motifs in several narrow bands. The traditional palette covers deep reds, dark blue, beige, and ivory, complemented by accents in green and gold. The patterning is mostly all-over — the decoration repeats evenly across the entire rug surface without a dominant central medallion.
Knot density typically lies between 60,000 and 120,000 knots per square metre, placing them in the medium quality category. The pile is medium-long to long, lending the rugs a pleasant feel.
Material and technique
Nahavand rugs are knotted exclusively from sheep's wool, both for the pile and for the warp. The weft is also wool, and occasionally cotton is used. The wool comes predominantly from the local region and stands out for its robustness and natural lanolin content.
The knotting technique follows the Turkish (Ghiordes) knot. The rugs are knotted on vertical looms using traditional methods passed from generation to generation. Dyeing is partly still done with natural dyes, complemented by high-quality synthetic colours for even results.
Worth knowing
Nahavand rugs belong to the family of Hamadan rugs and share many characteristics with other products from this region. They are known for their durability and good value for money. Production takes place both in workshops and as home-based work, with whole families often involved in rug-making.
A particular feature is the use of asymmetrical patterns that — despite their geometric basic structure — produce a lively effect. This sets them apart from the strictly symmetrical design of many other Persian rug styles.
Frequently asked questions
How do Nahavand rugs differ from other Hamadan rugs?
Nahavand rugs tend to have finer knotting and more detailed patterning than other Hamadan variants. Their colour scheme is often higher in contrast and the geometric motifs show specific local variations of the Herati design.
Are Nahavand rugs suitable for high-traffic areas?
Yes — thanks to their robust wool quality and proven knotting technique, Nahavand rugs are very resilient and well suited to living areas with normal to high use.
How can I check the authenticity of a Nahavand rug?
Authentic Nahavand rugs show characteristic irregular edges, slight deviations in patterning, and the typical wool structure. The back should reveal the pattern clearly, and the knots are visible on close inspection.
What sizes are typical for Nahavand rugs?
Nahavand rugs are produced in various standard sizes, from small bridge rugs (60 × 90 cm) to large living-room rugs (200 × 300 cm and above). Runners in various lengths are also characteristic of this production.
Impressions of the origin
Places, landscapes and landmarks around the home of Nahavand rugs. Click any image for a larger view.
