Origin of Vist Rugs

Vist is a city in the Central District of Khansar County, Isfahan Province, Iran. Vist rugs originate from Vist, also referred to as Viss or Wiss. However, for a small town, Vist has an eclectic mix of population. Urban people and Nomadic people of Bakhtiari all call Vist home, and it is the influence from these diverse groups that is an integral part of the weaving of wool rugs here. Due to its largely nomadic population, the majority of Vist rugs feature geometric designs, which is an indication of a tribal rug. Its location influenced the local weavers to create their wool rugs with a Turkish symmetrical knot and a single shot of weft between the rows of knots.

History of Vist Rugs

Vist carpets are known in the market from the second quarter of the twentieth century. They were popular in Europe as one of the few geometric room-size types with tribal design elements. These carpets were an alternative choice to the Heriz weavings of northwestern Iran, which were in demand by the world floor covering markets.

Characteristics of Vist Rugs

• Material and Knots

All rugs have a wool pile colored with natural vegetable dyes. Very rarely is silk seen in this region. The foundation of the rug is usually cotton, and in some cases wool or goat hair. The foundations on Vist rugs are cotton, although silk may be found on a very rare, old rug.

The wool used to weave the pile is extremely thick and durable, giving these rugs the probability of lasting for centuries. The majority of Vist rugs are mid-size due to the compact looms. These wool rugs are woven with a Turkish symmetrical knot and a single shot of weft between the rows of knots.

• Color

These are placed in open field of a solid color, most often red. And navy is used to create the borders with hints of beige throughout. The dominant colors used in Vist rugs are dark red, khaki, light blue, dark blue, and ivory. All of the dyes are created from the local vegetation.

• Design and Pattern

The single most defining characteristic of Vist rugs is a very unique center medallion, which is a rounded seven sided geometric shape that always has pair of jewel-like shapes at either end. In order to showcase this unusual design, Vist rugs most frequently have a red background and a large and intricate border. Other design elements in Vist rugs including the famous Herati motif, small animal figures, and a garden design are all variations of designs that are commonplace in the neighboring villages.

The Vist rug has a very distinct pattern. This includes a bold hexagonal central medallion, with two smaller diamond shape sub-medallions to the top and bottom.

The patterns are usually simple geometric arrangements with vibrant primary colors. Sometimes small animals or garden elements are seen, and often the famous Herati design.

These boldly designed and dramatically shaded wool rugs will give any room in your home a look of polished elegance.