Tuyserkan
Tuyserkan rugs come from a small town in Hamadan Province and combine Hamadan single-weft weave with classic Herati patterns.
- Region
- Persia / Iran
- Category
- Persian rugs
- Manufacturing
- Hand-knotted
- Knot density
- 60,000 – 150,000 knots/m²
Profile
- Manufacturing
- Hand-knotted
- Origin
- Iran — Tuyserkan, Hamadan Province
- Pile material
- Wool on cotton
- Knot density
- 60,000 – 150,000 knots/m²
- Features
- Herati pattern, single-weft, ivory and red palette
Photo: Morgenland Rugs
Origin
Touiserkan rugs come from the eponymous town of Touiserkan in the Iranian province of Hamadan. The town lies about 300 kilometres west of Tehran in the Zagros mountains and is part of the traditional Hamadan rug-knotting region. Rug production in Touiserkan grew strongly in the 20th century, with knotters drawing on centuries-old Persian traditions. The region benefited from its strategic location on important trade routes and developed a distinct style within the Hamadan group.
Characteristics
Touiserkan rugs are distinguished by their geometric pattern structures and earthy palettes. Typical are central medallions in diamond or hexagonal form, surrounded by smaller geometric motifs. The borders mostly show traditional Persian elements such as stylised flowers or zigzag patterns. Characteristic is the use of reds and blues in various shades, complemented by beige, cream, and occasionally green. The patterns are less fine than urban productions but show a clear structure and harmonious proportions.
Material and technique
The warp is usually cotton, while both cotton and occasionally wool are used for the weft. The pile is knotted exclusively from wool sourced from local sheep flocks. Knot density typically lies between 80,000 and 150,000 knots per square metre, placing them in the medium quality category. Knotting uses the Turkish (Ghiordes) knot, characteristic of the region. The wool is dyed with natural and synthetic dyes; modern productions often use a combination of both.
Worth knowing
Touiserkan rugs are often marketed as Hamadan rugs, since they belong to the same regional group. They are particularly valued for their durability and well suited to high-traffic areas. Production takes place both in manufactories and through home-based work by individual families. Many Touiserkan rugs are knotted in standard sizes such as 200 × 300 cm or 250 × 350 cm, making them attractive for the international market. Quality has improved steadily in recent decades, and modern pieces often show excellent workmanship.
Frequently asked questions
How do Touiserkan rugs differ from other Hamadan rugs?
Touiserkan rugs tend to have more geometric patterns and a slightly higher knot density than other Hamadan productions. The colour scheme is often more balanced, with less stark transitions between individual tones.
Are Touiserkan rugs suitable for allergy sufferers?
Since they are knotted from pure sheep's wool and modern pieces are mostly produced low in pollutants, they are generally suitable for most people. With known wool allergies, however, caution is advised.
How do I care for a Touiserkan rug properly?
Regular vacuuming on medium suction in the pile direction is sufficient. For stains, blot immediately with clear water. Professional cleaning is recommended every 3–5 years depending on use.
What sizes are typical for Touiserkan rugs?
Standard sizes are 150 × 225 cm, 200 × 300 cm, and 250 × 350 cm. Runners measuring 80 × 300 cm are also frequently available. Square formats are produced more rarely.
Impressions of the origin
Places, landscapes and landmarks around the home of Tuyserkan rugs. Click any image for a larger view.
Related styles
Hamadan
Hamadan rugs come from western Iran and are produced in countless village workshops — robust, affordable, and highly varied.
Nahavand
Nahavand rugs come from the Hamadan region and show a more open weave with bold geometric medallions.
Koliai
Koliai rugs are knotted by Kurdish tribes in western Iran and combine geometric motifs with a robust pile.
