Tabriz

Curated by Rug the Rock

Authentic Persian Tabriz Rugs

Step into the world of Persian Tabriz rugs, where every carpet is a chapter in a centuries-old story. Our curated collection features vintage area rugs and runners from the 19th and 20th centuries, originating from Tabriz and its neighboring weaving towns in northwestern Iran. These rugs are more than decor—they are heirlooms steeped in history. 

We offer both antique and vintage rugs that capture the timeless elegance of NW Persian artistry. Our selection features various sizes—from small pieces to runners to larger sizes like 8x10 and 9x12—each is one-of-a-kind and sustainably made.

Historical Legacy

Tabriz, renowned for its rich weaving tradition dating back to the Safavid dynasty, became a hub for luxurious court carpets in the 16th century. Over the centuries, despite historic challenges, Tabriz revived and sustained its weaving excellence, particularly in the late 19th century under master producers like Hajji Jalili and Tabatabaei. Today, vintage Tabriz rugs reflect a seamless blend of historical craftsmanship and timeless design.

Distinctive Designs

One hallmark of Tabriz rugs is the incredible diversity of their designs. There is no single “Tabriz pattern” but rather a whole repertoire. Weavers in Tabriz draw from a rich library of classical Persian motifs, assembling them in both traditional layouts and creative variations. A very common design is the _lachak-toranj pattern – essentially, a large central medallion (turanj) with matching quarter-medallions in the four corners (lachak). This medallion-and-corner layout has been a staple of Tabriz carpets for centuries. Tabriz medallion carpets often have an almost architectural balance – a grand centerpiece, framed by floral arabesque vinework and ornate borders, coming together in a unified whole .

Aside from the medallion format, Tabriz weavers excel in many other styles. You will find all-over repeat patterns, such as the famous Herati (also known as “Mahi” or fish design), consisting of interlocking flower blossoms and leaves arranged in diamond latticework. You’ll also encounter floral garden designs, sometimes called Afshan, where blossoms and tendrils are sprinkled freely across the field without a central focal point. In some cases, you might even see pictorial or story-telling rugs from Tabriz. Historically, Tabriz was a city of poets, painters, and artisans, and this artistic spirit found its way into carpets as well . Weavers have been known to depict scenes from Persian literature, idyllic gardens, or royal hunting parties in their rugs. These narrative rugs are like woven paintings – a charming reminder that carpet weaving in Tabriz is truly an art form as much as a craft.

Refinement

Despite the variety, Tabriz rugs are typically easy to recognize for their refinement. The designs – whether floral or geometric – are usually executed with a high degree of detail and clarity. Curving vine scrolls, arabesques, and multi-petaled rosettes are rendered with precision, often giving Tabriz carpets an elegant, formal look akin to that of Persian miniaturist art . Even village-origin Tabriz-area rugs (like those from Heriz or Karaja) maintain a certain balanced geometry and large-scale beauty that set them apart. In short, a “Tabriz school” rug can range from ornate courtly designs to folksier regional patterns, but all carry an air of classic Persian tradition. Part of the fun of exploring this collection is seeing that range – from the elaborate curvilinear medallions to the more rustic, tribal-influenced pieces – and appreciating how they all fit into the canon of Tabriz design.

Colors & Aged Beauty

Tabriz rugs offer harmonious palettes dominated by rich reds, deep indigo blues, and warm ivories. Over time, these colors have mellowed into beautiful, nuanced shades, enhanced by natural wear and gentle patinas that give each rug a distinct, inviting character.

Tabriz and Its Neighbors: Ardabil, Heriz, and More

While Tabriz was the major city loom center, it was surrounded by a constellation of smaller towns and villages that contributed to the region’s rich weaving heritage. Our collection includes select pieces from some of these neighboring areas – such as Ardabil, Heriz, Meshkinshahr and other Azerbaijani weaving communities – because they share a clear family resemblance to the Tabriz rugs. In fact, experts often speak of a broader “Tabriz school” of carpet design that encompasses Tabriz and its surrounding weaving districts . Ardabil, for instance, is a city not far from Tabriz, . Rugs labeled as Ardabil in the market typically feature similar craftsmanship and motifs to Tabriz rugs, often with a focus on the herati motif or geometric medallions. They usually use the same wool-on-cotton structure and knotting style. 

If you’re searching for a statement piece or a rustic neutral accent, explore our carefully curated Tabriz rugs for sale in Toronto—the perfect way to embrace the rich heritage of Persian culture. We ship worldwide, and shipping is free in North America. Discover the ideal rug for your home today!