Sharabian Persian Area Rugs

Origin of Sharabian Rugs ¹

Sharabian Iran (Persia). Sharabian is a village located in the East Azerbaijan Province of northwestern Iran. Sharabian sizes woven range from small mats to approximately fourteen feet by ten feet. A majority of carpets were made in standard dimensions of twelve feet by nine feet. Sharabian carpets are good in grade quality and are known to be durable.

History of Sharabian Rugs

It is situated close to the famous weaving village of Heriz. The population is Azeri tribe in origin and speaks a Turkic dialect. Sharabian carpet production started when the demand for Heriz carpets grew in the world marketplace during the turn of the twentieth century. Sharabian carpets have Heriz design styles and are grouped under the Heriz carpet name.

Characteristics of Sharabian Rugs

• Material and Knots

The weavings have a cotton foundation and a wool pile. The Turkish (symmetric) knot is employed. Sharabians are durable as floor coverings because weavers tightly hammer the wefts during production. After World War II, great quantities of Sharabians were produced for the domestic market and foreign export to the West.

• Color

The carpets generally have a brick-red or deep red background. Different shades of blue were used for the medallion and border. In addition to these colors, shades of red, ivory, green, rust, camel, coral, and brown are utilized for the design elements. Dark brown or black was incorporated for design outlines.

• Design and Pattern

Sharabian background designs are nearly geometric or quasi geometric, featuring medallion or allover styles. The motifs include palmettes, leaves, and vines, with primitive nomadic design elements.