What is a Nahavand Rug?

When talking about lightweight Persian area rugs for sale, Nahavand rugs are one of a kind. Whilst they are similar to the Soumak and Kilim rugs of Persia, the Nahavand has unique designs and an inherent softness. Their colors and textures go well with all kinds of furnishings, making them a symbol of pride among rug collectors. If you are considering a simple flat weave oriental carpet, look into the analysis of the Nahavand rugs below.

History of the Nahavand Rugs

Nahavand Rugs

In south of Iran’s Hamadan province is the city of Nahavand, the namesake and origin for the Nahavand rug. Surrounding the city of Nahavand is Iran’s most productive rug manufacturing villages-- Nahavand is among them.

The Nahavand rug's unique blend of colors makes their designs "pop", providing a shiny coat that's made them a popular item among the Western European market. These rugs entered the Western market somewhere around the 19th century and have been raved about their long-lasting properties and visual delight. It's difficult to trace back the exact date for the Nahavand's origins, but most suspect it was a few hundred years prior to the 19th century.

Materials and texture

Nahavand Rugs

The Persian Nahavand rugs were woven from high-quality shiny wool that provided these rugs with both a durable composition and luxurious presentation. Side by side with the Nahavand's wool weave is a foundation of cotton that provide a further consistent texture.

Weaving Techniques

These rugs were commonly flat woven on horizontal looms which produced small area sized, lightweight rugs. The knots used were asymmetrical Turkish knots, also known as senna. The knot counts reach from 80,000 to 160,000 knots per square meter.

Color and designs

Nahavand Rugs

One of the features that can easily distinguish the Nahavand from other Persian flat woven rugs is the use of rusty red or dark shades of blue. Nahavand uses a variety of vibrant colors in its designs which make them quite eye catching and a remarkable work to behold.

Because of its nomadic heritage, Nahavand rugs usually incorporate a folk inspired geometrical design, floral patterns, and thick borders across its body. The color combination is kept light with a deep contrasting equilibrium making the intricate design work shine through.

Available Sizes

Nahavand rugs were produced in horizontal looms-- in turn, they were made smaller in size for the ease of their makers. Their sizes can range up from 1 x 3 feet and 4 x 6 feet when these Persian area rugs are found on the market.