Sanandaj
rugs originate from Sanandaj, located in western Iran, is the capital
city of the State of Kurdestan. Formerly called Senneh, it is world
renowned for producing the finest quality Kurdish tribal wool rugs.
Sanandaj has a long and illustrious history of weaving wool rugs which
can be traced back into at least the classical period and perhaps much
farther back than that. The older Sanandaj rugs are extremely valuable
and durable, maintaining their luster and appearance for centuries.
Interestingly enough, local artisans weave Sanandaj rugs using Turkish
knots, in spite of the fact that the asymmetrical knot which is also
known as the Persian knot or Senneh knot, was actually named after this
city.
During the 1940s
Sanandaj weavers seemed to shift away from the old traditional patterns
and instead started featuring the Herati design more frequently on
their wool rugs. One of the old patterns that gave way to the Herati on
more recent Sanandaj rugs is the Gol-i-Bolbol which is a flower and
bird design. Gol literally means flower and Bolbol is a type of bird.
The patterns on Sanandaj rugs are almost always geometric and quite
similar to Bijar wool rugs. A popular design on Sanandaj rugs features
concentric medallions with a single diamond or hexagonal medallion in
the center on a detailed background. The classic all-over Boteh motif
is another favorite. Typically the background colors on Sanandaj rugs
are red, navy, black, brown, ocher, and beige with yellow, red, light
green, orange and ivory featured on the motifs.
The foundations of Sanandaj rugs are cotton, while the pile is wool.
You may however find a rare antique rug with a silk foundation.
Sanandaj rugs are most frequently seen in small and mid-size however
larger rugs and runner styles are also available. These extremely
durable and exquisite Kurdish tribal wool rugs will last for centuries
while adding refined elegance to any room in your home.