Kerman rugs - the favorite persian rug of Marco Polo

Kerman rugs are very high quality persian rugs. Kerman rugs are similar to Tabriz and Isfahan rugs. Kerman rugs tend to be large in size, typically 10X18 feet. However, smaller size Kerman rugs are available. Kerman rugs and carpets have many different designs. The kerman rugs traditional pattern is a floral or architectural theme in the main border and central medallion. This is typically contrasted with an open field of solid cranberry red, navy blue or other strong colors.

Other patterns on Kerman rugs include the finer Lavar style with garden, tree-of-life, vase and all-over mille fleur designs, or the many pictorials which tell the story of a significant figure or event in history. The patterns tend to be washed to give the rug a soft look.

History of Kerman rugs

Kerman is an ancient city, with an incredible history going back over a thousand years. Marco Polo was one of the first westerners to view Kerman rugs. It is located in the central south-eastern section of Iran, in the province that bears its name.

The city of Kerman was one first to be granted Royal workshops. Often, a professional weaver in Kerman will work on a carpet for many years. The famous asymmetrical Persian knot is the only one used on Kerman rugs, with the materials being all wool, all silk or a combination of the two, trimmed to a rather long pile. The foundation is usually cotton, except in very fine pieces where it is pure silk.