Persian Kashan Rugs: A Guide to History, Style, and Quality
Hanif HosseiniPersian Kashan rugs are among the most exquisite and elegant rugs in the world. They originate from the city of Kashan in central Iran, which has a long and rich history of rug weaving dating back to the 16th century.
In this blog post, we will explore the history, style, and quality of Kashan rugs, and give you some tips on how to choose and care for them. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a novice buyer, you will find this guide useful and informative.
History of Kashan Rugs
Kashan is one of the oldest cities in Iran and has been a major center of culture, art, and commerce for centuries. It is famous for its silk production, pottery, tile work, and of course, rug weaving.
The history of Kashan rug weaving dates back to the Safavid dynasty (1501-1736), which is considered the golden age of Persian art and culture. The Safavid rulers supported fine arts and fostered the development of various crafts, including rug weaving.
During this period, Kashan became one of the main producers of high-quality silk rugs for the royal court and the nobility. These rugs were known for their intricate designs, vibrant colors, and exquisite craftsmanship. Some of the finest examples of Safavid Kashan rugs are now displayed in museums around the world.
However, after the fall of the Safavid dynasty, Kashan rug production declined due to political and economic instability. Fortunately, it revived in the late 19th century when master weavers brought new techniques and materials to the craft.
Since then, Kashan has continued to produce some of the best wool and silk rugs in Iran and has earned a reputation for excellence and innovation.
Style of Kashan Rugs
Kashan rugs are known for their intricate designs, vibrant colors, and high-quality materials. They are usually made of wool or silk, or a combination of both, and feature floral, medallion, or hunting motifs.
The central medallion with corner spandrels and a floral border is the most common design of Kashan rugs. The medallion can be round, oval, hexagonal, or star-shaped, and intricate floral patterns often fill it. The corner spandrels are usually smaller versions of the medallion or have complementary designs.
The border of Kashan rugs is typically composed of three or more bands that have floral or geometric motifs. The main border is usually wider than the inner and outer borders and has more elaborate patterns.
The colors of Kashan rugs are rich and varied. They range from reds, blues, greens, yellows, pinks, purples, to browns, blacks, whites, and creams. The colors often contrast to create a striking effect.
Pure silk makes some of the finest Kashan rugs and gives them a very soft and shiny appearance. These rugs are often called “Mohtasham” after a famous weaver who lived in Kashan in the late 19th century. Collectors and connoisseurs highly seek Mohtasham rugs for their beauty and rarity.
Quality of Kashan Rugs
Kashan rugs are among the highest quality Persian rugs and carpets. They are made with fine materials such as wool or silk that are dyed with natural or synthetic dyes. They are hand-knotted by skilled artisans who use traditional techniques and tools.
Experts measure the quality of Kashan rugs by several factors such as knot density, pile height, design complexity, color harmony, and condition.
Knot Density:
Knot density refers to the number of knots per square inch (KPSI) or per square centimeter (KPCM) on the back of the rug. The higher the knot density, the finer the weave and the more detailed the design. Kashan rugs typically have a knot density ranging from 120 to 840 KPSI or 19 to 130 KPCM.
Pile Height:
Pile height refers to the length of the wool or silk fibers that form the surface of the rug. The pile height can vary depending on the type of material, the style of weaving, and the preference of the weaver. Kashan rugs usually have a medium to low pile height, which gives them a smooth and elegant look.
Design Complexity:
Design Complexity: Design complexity refers to the level of detail and variety of patterns and motifs on the rug. The design becomes more complex as the skill and time required to weave it increase. Kashan rugs have some of the most complex and diverse designs among Persian rugs, ranging from floral to geometric to hunting scenes.
Color Harmony:
Color harmony refers to the balance and coordination of colors on the rug. The colors should complement each other and create a pleasing effect. Kashan rugs have some of the most vibrant and varied colors among Persian rugs, which are often contrasted to create a striking effect.
Condition:
Condition refers to the state of preservation and maintenance of the rug. The condition can affect the value and appearance of the rug. Kashan rugs are generally well-preserved and well-maintained due to their high quality and durability.
How to Choose a Kashan Rug
If you are interested in buying a Kashan rug, there are some factors that you should consider before making your purchase. Here are some tips on how to choose a Kashan rug that suits your taste and budget:
Size:
Kashan rugs come in various sizes, from small accent pieces to large area rugs. You should measure your space and decide what size of rug you need. You should also consider how much floor you want to cover and how much furniture you have in your room.
Style:
Kashan rugs have various styles, from traditional to modern. You should choose a style that matches your decor and personality. You should also consider the mood and atmosphere you want to create in your room.
Color:
Kashan rugs have various colors, from warm to cool. You should choose a color that complements your existing color scheme and enhances your room's appearance. You should also consider the lighting and season in your room.
Material:
Kashan rugs are made of wool or silk, or a combination of both. You should choose a material that meets your needs and preferences. Wool is more durable, warm, and affordable than silk, but silk is more soft, shiny, and luxurious than wool.
Quality:
Kashan rugs have various levels of quality, depending on their knot density, pile height, design complexity, color harmony, and condition. You should choose a quality that reflects your budget and expectations. Higher quality rugs are more expensive, but they are also more beautiful and valuable.
How to Care for a Kashan Rug
Once you have bought a Kashan rug, you should take good care of it to preserve its beauty and longevity. Here are some tips on how to care for a Kashan rug:
- Vacuum: Vacuuming your rug regularly removes dust and dirt. You should use a gentle suction setting and avoid using a beater bar or brush attachment that can damage the fibers. Vacuuming both sides of the rug occasionally prevents moth infestation.
- Rotate: Rotating your rug every few months prevents uneven wear and fading. You should also avoid exposing your rug to direct sunlight or artificial light that can cause color fading or bleaching.
- Clean: Cleaning your rug professionally every few years or whenever it gets stained or soiled keeps it in good condition. You should avoid using harsh chemicals or DIY methods that can damage the fibers or colors. You should also avoid wetting or soaking your rug as it can cause shrinkage or mold growth.
- Repair: Repairing your rug as soon as possible if it gets torn, frayed, or damaged saves it from further damage. You should seek professional help from an expert who can restore your rug’s original condition and value.
Persian Kashan rugs are among the most exquisite and elegant carpets in the world. They have a long and rich history of rug weaving that dates back to the 16th century. They have intricate designs, vibrant colors, and high-quality materials that make them ideal for adding a touch of luxury and sophistication to any room.
At Rug The Rock, we have a wide selection of Persian Kashan rugs for sale. You can browse our online catalog or visit our showroom to see our collection in person. We offer free shipping, easy returns, and best price guarantee.
If you have any questions or need help choosing a rug, we are here to assist you.
