Tabriz
Tabriz rugs are among the most refined Persian carpets, known for their finely knotted designs and remarkable variety of patterns.
- Region
- Persia / Iran
- Category
- Persian rugs
- Manufacturing
- Hand-knotted
- Knot density
- 120,000 – 1,000,000 knots/m²
Profile
- Manufacturing
- Hand-knotted
- Origin
- Iran — Tabriz, East Azerbaijan Province
- Pile material
- Wool on cotton, sometimes with silk
- Knot density
- 120,000 – 1,000,000 knots/m²
- Features
- Finest knotting quality, Raj classification, often medallion designs
Photo: Morgenland Rugs
Origin
Tabriz rugs come from the city of the same name in northwestern Iran, the capital of East Azerbaijan Province. The region looks back on one of the oldest knotting traditions in Persia — already in the 15th and 16th centuries Tabriz was a leading centre of courtly rug art under the Safavid dynasty. Famous pieces from this period, such as the Ardabil rug (now in the Victoria and Albert Museum, London), come from the workshops of the region.
A flourishing era was followed by decline and revival: at the end of the 19th century, Tabriz experienced a renaissance through master weavers like Haji Jalili, which still shapes the city's reputation today. Numerous manufactories and village workshops in and around Tabriz now produce both classical patterns and original creations.
Characteristics
What is typical of Tabriz rugs is their enormous stylistic range — probably the broadest of any Persian knotting region. The repertoire reaches from classical medallion compositions through hunting scenes and garden patterns to HeratiHeratiKlassisches Muster aus einem Rautenrahmen mit zentraler Rosette und vier gebogenen Blättern (Fisch-Motiv). Sehr verbreitet in persischen Dorfteppichen.Read in glossary →, Mahi, and Shah Abbas motifs. Other characteristics include:
- Cleanly drawn, often symmetric compositions
- Fine, differentiated colour gradations with a frequently muted palette
- A central medallion with corner spandrels as the most common base scheme
- Formats ranging from small bridge rugs to large palace pieces
The quality of a Tabriz is traditionally classified by the RajRajMaßeinheit für die Knotenfeinheit bei Täbriz-Teppichen. Gibt die Anzahl der Knoten auf 7 cm Breite an. 50 Raj gilt als fein, 70+ Raj als sehr fein.Read in glossary → system (see below).
Material and technique
Tabriz rugs are knotted from fine kork wool (the soft underwool of the sheep) on a cotton warp. Higher-grade qualities incorporate silk accents to highlight outlines, flower centres, or fine details. The finest Tabriz rugs — especially in the RajRajMaßeinheit für die Knotenfeinheit bei Täbriz-Teppichen. Gibt die Anzahl der Knoten auf 7 cm Breite an. 50 Raj gilt als fein, 70+ Raj als sehr fein.Read in glossary → 60 and Raj 70 range — are knotted entirely from silk.
Tabriz uses the asymmetric Senneh knot (also called the Persian knot). Unlike the symmetric Ghiordes knot, the Senneh knot allows finer detail drawing and is therefore the prerequisite for the high knot densities Tabriz is known for.
The Raj system
The quality of a Tabriz is measured by the RajRajMaßeinheit für die Knotenfeinheit bei Täbriz-Teppichen. Gibt die Anzahl der Knoten auf 7 cm Breite an. 50 Raj gilt als fein, 70+ Raj als sehr fein.Read in glossary → system: Raj denotes the number of knot pairs across 7 cm of width. The higher the Raj number, the finer the pattern and the more detailed the execution.
| Raj | Knots/7 cm | Knots/m² | Quality grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| 40 | 40 | ca. 140,000 | Entry |
| 50 | 50 | ca. 250,000 | Mid-range |
| 60 | 60 | ca. 500,000 | Fine |
| 70 | 70 | ca. 700,000–1,000,000 | Collector |
Entry qualities (RajRajMaßeinheit für die Knotenfeinheit bei Täbriz-Teppichen. Gibt die Anzahl der Knoten auf 7 cm Breite an. 50 Raj gilt als fein, 70+ Raj als sehr fein.Read in glossary → 40) are sturdy everyday rugs with clear pattern drawing. Mid-range qualities (Raj 50) already offer noticeably finer detail and are the most widespread category. Fine qualities (Raj 60) allow complex figurative patterns and are often enhanced with silk accents. Collector qualities (Raj 70 and above) are top pieces in which every detail is precisely worked out — often entirely in silk.
A detailed description of all grades is given in the Quality grades section below.
Worth knowing
Tabriz is regarded as the most versatile of all Persian knotting regions — which at the same time makes identification harder. Whereas an Isfahan or Nain can usually be recognised by a few hallmarks, Tabriz plays with a broad palette of motifs and styles. The region is also home to several famous master weavers whose signatures can considerably increase the value of a piece — first and foremost Haji Jalili, whose late-19th-century works command collector prices today.
Related Persian styles are Heriz from the eastern surroundings, Ardebil from the neighbouring province to the north, and the finer Isfahan from central Persia.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Raj number mean on Tabriz rugs?
Raj indicates the number of knot pairs across 7 cm of rug width. Higher Raj values mean finer pattern drawing and a higher knot density. Raj 40 is entry quality; Raj 70 and above counts as collector-grade.
Why do Tabriz rugs vary so much in quality?
Tabriz covers a very wide spectrum, from simple village rugs to manufactory masterpieces. The region has no single quality grade — only the Raj classification and the material choice (wool, kork wool, silk) make the quality difference tangible.
How do I recognise an authentic Tabriz?
By the knotting technique (asymmetric Senneh knot), the cotton warp, the fine kork wool in the pile, and the typical motif repertoire. The knot density should match the stated Raj value. For collector pieces, look for signatures from known master weavers.
Are Tabriz rugs value-stable?
High-end Tabriz rugs — especially in the upper Raj qualities or with a master signature — are considered a solid investment. Raj 60 and Raj 70 qualities hold or appreciate over decades provided they remain in good condition.
How do I care for a Tabriz rug?
Regular vacuuming in the pile direction, no harsh cleaners, and professional hand-washing every few years. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade colours. Blot stains immediately with clean water — do not rub.
Quality grades
Tabriz rugs are made in various quality grades. Each grade differs in knot density, material, and price.
Tabriz 40 Raj
Shop →An entry-level Tabriz quality — robust, with clear patterns and good wool.
- Pile material
- Wool on cotton
- Knot density
- approx. 140,000 knots/m² (40 knots per 7 cm)
- Features
- 40 Raj, clear medallion patterns, entry-level quality
Tabriz 50 Raj
Shop →A mid-range Tabriz quality with fine knotting and versatile designs.
- Pile material
- Wool on cotton, sometimes with silk accents
- Knot density
- approx. 250,000 knots/m² (50 knots per 7 cm)
- Features
- 50 Raj, fine medallion patterns, good wool, versatile
Tabriz 60 Raj
Shop →A fine Tabriz quality with a high share of silk and richly detailed patterns.
- Pile material
- Cork wool with silk on cotton
- Knot density
- approx. 500,000 knots/m² (60 knots per 7 cm)
- Features
- 60 Raj, silk highlights, richly detailed, fine
Tabriz 70 Raj
Shop →The finest Tabriz quality — collector pieces with the highest precision.
- Pile material
- Cork wool and silk on cotton or silk
- Knot density
- approx. 700,000 – 1,000,000 knots/m² (70 knots per 7 cm)
- Features
- 70 Raj, collector pieces, highest precision, finest wool
Impressions of the origin
Places, landscapes and landmarks around the home of Tabriz rugs. Click any image for a larger view.
Master weavers
These masters and workshops have shaped the Tabriz tradition.
Related styles
Isfahan
Isfahan rugs from the former Safavid capital are considered the pinnacle of Persian rug knotting — exceptionally fine and elegant.
Heriz
Heriz rugs from northwestern Iran are known for their bold geometric medallions and exceptional durability.
Ardebil
Ardebil rugs come from northwestern Iran and often show geometric patterns with Caucasian influence.
