 Sarab
rugs originate from Sarab, located in northwestern Iran in Azerbaijan,
is famous for good quality rug runners from 10’ to 20’ long and 3’
wide, in addition to doormat size rugs. Prior to 1813 Sarab and the
whole greater Mount Savalan region including the rug producing areas of
Heriz, Ahar, and Gorevan was known as the Khanate (an old fashion term
for an administrative district or state) of Sarab. Although the rug
runners can be very long lengths, the widths are limited to just under
4’ due to the fact that the old fashioned looms that are used are
smaller in size in order to facilitate transportation. Sarab rugs are
woven using both Persian and Turkish knots. Their quality is higher
than the average rug runners and knot counts vary from 80 to 100 KPSI
(knots per square inch).
Sarab rugs typically feature geometric patterns with uncrowded
backgrounds. The layout is usually comprised of a long medallion with
corners that look similar to the medallion. The borderline of the
medallion is zigzagged. The geometric zigzag motif woven in a running
pattern on Sarab rugs is rather reminiscent of Native American designs.
The background of Sarab rugs is usually in undyed camel hair or it may
be blue or red, with the designs woven in red, brown, blue, taupe, or
ivory. Only natural vegetable dyes are used to create the rich colors.
Foundations of Sarab rugs are cotton, while the pile is wool. The
doormat sizes are small enough to be used as throws in addition to
versatile mats that can be used in any room in the house. Sarab rugs
can be used to solve decorating dilemmas for unusually shaped spaces.
They can even be used as magnificent table runners. Whether they grace
your entrance hall or your dining room table, Sarab rugs will make a
striking contribution to your décor.
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