Rafsanjan
Rafsanjan rugs come from the Kerman pistachio town and show floral compositions related to Kerman pieces but in coarser knotting.
- Region
- Persia / Iran
- Category
- Persian rugs
- Manufacturing
- Hand-knotted
- Knot density
- 150,000 – 350,000 knots/m²
Profile
- Manufacturing
- Hand-knotted
- Origin
- Iran — Rafsanjan, Kerman Province
- Pile material
- Wool on cotton
- Knot density
- 150,000 – 350,000 knots/m²
- Features
- Floral compositions, related to Kerman style, coarser knotting
Photo: Morgenland Rugs
Origin
Rafsanjan rugs come from the eponymous town of Rafsanjan in Kerman Province in south-eastern Persia. The town lies about 160 kilometres north-west of the provincial capital Kerman and has been an important centre of rug knotting for centuries. The region is known for its craft tradition and the processing of high-quality materials. Rafsanjan rugs are knotted both in the town itself and in the surrounding villages, with production passed from generation to generation.
Characteristics
Rafsanjan rugs are distinguished by their fine knotting and elegant designs. Characteristic are floral patterns with central medallions surrounded by elaborately designed corner fields. Shah Abbas palmettes, arabesques, and stylised floral motifs frequently appear. The traditional palette is dominated by warm reds, complemented by blue, beige, and cream. Modern Rafsanjan rugs often also show more restrained colours in beiges and browns. Borders are mostly multi-tiered and show classical Persian ornaments such as palmettes or geometric patterns.
Material and technique
The warp is usually cotton, while both cotton and wool are used for the weft. The pile is knotted from high-quality wool, often sourced from the Kermanshah region. Knot density typically lies between 160,000 and 350,000 knots per square metre, with finer pieces capable of higher values. The Persian Senneh knot is used. The rugs are knotted on horizontal looms and after completion are sheared and washed. The characteristic gloss treatment gives the pile a silken sheen.
Worth knowing
Rafsanjan is also known as a centre of Iranian pistachio cultivation, providing a second important pillar to the local economy alongside rug production. Rug knotting in Rafsanjan had a heyday in the 1960s and 1970s, when production was strongly oriented toward export. Many Rafsanjan rugs are mistakenly called Kerman rugs since both styles come from the same province and share similar characteristics. The distinction is mostly made via the slightly coarser knotting and the specific colour combinations of Rafsanjan rugs.
Frequently asked questions
How do Rafsanjan rugs differ from Kerman rugs?
Rafsanjan rugs usually have a slightly lower knot density than fine Kerman rugs and often show stronger colours. The patterns are similar, but Rafsanjan rugs often feel less formal and sometimes show slight deviations in symmetry.
What sizes are typical for Rafsanjan rugs?
Typical formats are 200 × 300 cm and 300 × 400 cm. Smaller formats such as 150 × 200 cm and runners are also produced. Very large formats over 400 × 600 cm are rarer and mostly custom orders.
Are Rafsanjan rugs value-stable?
High-quality Rafsanjan rugs with fine knotting and traditional patterns count as value-stable. They do not, however, reach the prices of top Kerman or Isfahan rugs. Value development depends strongly on quality, age, and condition.
How do I care for a Rafsanjan rug properly?
Regular vacuuming against the pile direction and professional cleaning every 3–5 years are recommended. For stains, blot immediately with clear water. Direct sunlight and high humidity should be avoided.
Impressions of the origin
Places, landscapes and landmarks around the home of Rafsanjan rugs. Click any image for a larger view.
