Rug Basics

Structure and Essential Materials

Guide to Handmade Rugs – Shahmansouri Persian Rugs Verona

Handmade rugs represent one of the most fascinating forms of Eastern craftsmanship, combining natural materials, traditional techniques, and ancient symbolism. In this guide, you will find essential information to better understand and appreciate these masterpieces.

Natural Materials in Persian Rugs

Wool

Wool is the most common base in Persian rugs. Sourced from sheep raised in the highlands of Iran or Turkestan, it can be shiny, soft, and incredibly durable. In some areas, lamb's wool or camel wool is also used to achieve a softer or coarser texture, depending on the desired style.

Silk

Silk is the most luxurious material. Used for high-end rugs destined for Persian courts, it allows for fine knotting and complex designs. Some silk-blended rugs use silk in the warp and weft, with a wool surface, creating a refined aesthetic effect.

Cotton

Cotton is a plant-based material widely used for the structure of the rug, particularly for the warp and weft. It is robust and resilient, ideal for providing strength to the base of the rug.

The Loom – The Foundation of Weaving

There are two types of looms:

Horizontal loom: used by nomads, easily portable, positioned on the ground.
Vertical loom: used by settled populations, offering greater stability for more complex rugs.

Knotting Techniques in Rugs

In handmade Persian rugs, three main types of knots are used:

Symmetric knot (Ghiordes or Torkibaft): common in Turkish and Caucasian rugs.
Asymmetric knot (Senneh or Farsibaft): typical of finer Persian rugs.
Jofti knot: a simplified knot using four warp threads, used for faster production (but less refined).

Hand-knotting is what distinguishes each handmade rug: every knot is the visible mark of time, care, and tradition.

Designs in Oriental Rugs

The designs can be:

Spontaneous: typical of nomadic populations, such as Qashqai, Lori, Gabbeh.
Cartoon designs: planned on graph paper for more complex and symmetrical rugs.

Common motifs:

Floral
Geometric
Tree of life
Field
Prayer
Central rosette
Hunting
Botteh
Herati
Figurative

Each motif has a symbolic meaning, linked to spirituality, fertility, strength, or protection.

Persian Terminology for Rug Sizes

Here are some traditional sizes with their Persian names:

Poshti/Padari ≈ 0.90 x 0.60 m
Zarocharak ≈ 1.20 x 0.80 m
Zaronim ≈ 1.50 x 1.00 m
Kharak ≈ 2.00 x 0.80 m
Ghalliceh/Sajadeh ≈ 2.00 x 1.40 m
Pardeh ≈ 2.70 x 1.70 m
Chahargush = Square format
Kenareh = Runner rug (long and narrow)

Handmade Rugs in Verona – Authenticity and Quality

At Shahmansouri Persian Rugs, in Verona, we select authentic handmade rugs crafted using techniques passed down through generations. Each rug is a unique piece, made with natural materials, plant-based dyes, and a passion for Persian art.

We are also specialists in rug cleaning and restoration in Verona, helping you preserve the beauty of your rug over time.

Stradone Arcidiacono Pacifico 14, Verona
info@artigianatopersiano.it
+39 045 8013280

Every Rug is a Unique and Unrepeatable Handcrafted Masterpiece

Each rug is a unique handcrafted artifact, with characteristics that differ based on cultural patterns and the natural resources available.

Hand weaving is an ancient art that combines skill and creativity. Through skilled gestures, weavers create works of rare beauty, interlacing threads with precision and passion.

Every creation becomes a tale of tradition and dedication, enchanting with its finesse and the art passed down through generations.

Handmade rugs are a sublime expression of textile art, intricately woven with mastery and passion. Each thread, woven with care, creates a one-of-a-kind masterpiece, rich in history and timeless beauty.

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