Location: Situated virtually in the centre of Iran, once the capital city. The rugs are woven in the city itself and in the surrounding villages.

Isfahan carpets and rugs are perhaps the most famous of all oriental floor coverings. They were almost certainly the first to attract the attention of Europe. During the early 17th Century, their name was renowned. Although rug making was interrupted by the Afghan invasion, after which her craftsmen switched to textiles and other handicrafts, Isfahan quickly re-established itself as a major centre for quality carpets, after weaving was reintroduced at the turn of the century.

General Description: Although many of the antique rugs from Isfahan are of silk, some with gold and silver threads, most of the Isfahan rugs are of wool. The city is still noted for its silk rugs, and some are still made today.

Isfahan rugs were and are made in private houses. They are noted for their antique and floral designs, which were developed by an ustad (master) carpet cartoonist during the beginning of the century. Thus from the collectors point of view, he should note that although the design may appear old the rug may not be contemporary with it. Antique Isfahans date from before the Afghan invasions of Persia.

Rugs and carpets with floral motifs generally take ò the form of a central floral medallion on a field covered with interlaced floral motifs. In some cases the floral design of the central medallion is repeated in the four corners.

Specification: Loom - Vertical. Warp - Silk, in five strands or cotton, warp slightly depressed. Weft - Cotton, blue usually two threads. Knot - Persian, 200 to 600 knots per square inch. Motifs - Medallions, or often in silk rugs the Ôtree of lifeÕ design is found.