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This 1940 Heriz rug from Azerbaijan is a large and powerful example of classic Persian craftsmanship, measuring 360 x 268 cm. Woven with a compact Turkish (Ghiordes) knot at 98,600 knots per square meter, it features a durable wool pile on an unbleached cotton foundation with double blue wefts—typical of authentic Heriz construction.

While the rounded design elements show subtle influence from nearby Tabriz, the structure and bold geometric character are distinctly from Heriz. The carefully detailed border reflects 17th-century Persian motifs, and the white spandrels brighten the composition.

Strong, decorative, and highly durable, this Heriz carpet is ideal for large interiors and remains highly valued by collectors and designers worldwide.

The Silk Animal Carpet, crafted in Isfahan during the late 16th century, is a stunning example of Persian artistry, currently preserved at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris. Measuring 124 x 109 cm, this rug boasts an impressive 1,287,000 knots per square meter, woven with yellow silk warp, double silk weft, and silk pile.

Its intricate design features a vibrant array of flowers and foliage, with four wild beasts attacking their prey and five other animals standing independently. The border is adorned with daisies, leaves, pomegranates, lion heads, and arabesques, highlighting Persian symbolism and meticulous craftsmanship.This carpet is part of the esteemed collection of “animal carpets,” known for their exceptional fineness and historical value, making it a timeless treasure of Persian weaving.

Carpet-making begins with evenly tensioned warp threads on a loom for symmetry. A selvedge, woven with weft threads, forms a firm edge for knotting.

The two main knot types are:

• Ghiordes (Turkish Knot): Knots wrap two warp threads, followed by weft compression and trimming to create the pile.
• Senneh (Persian Knot): Wool wraps one warp thread, looping behind another for intricate designs.

These refined techniques ensure Persian carpets are durable and exquisite.