Hamadan Rug
What is a Hamadan Rug?
A Hamadan rug is a traditional hand-knotted Persian carpet woven in the city of Hamadan and its surrounding villages in western Iran. Rather than a single design, the term “Hamadan” refers to a broad category of village rugs sharing common structural traits. These rugs typically feature a wool pile on a cotton foundation and are constructed using the symmetric Turkish (Ghiordes) knot. Known for their sturdy build and rustic charm, Hamadan rugs often display geometric medallions, angular vine scrolls, or repeating patterns like the Herati or boteh (paisley) motif. The designs reflect the diverse ethnic influences in the region, with colors that include deep indigo, scarlet red, ivory, orange, and brown. With their bold visuals, thick texture, and practical sizes, Hamadan rugs offer an accessible and durable introduction to authentic Persian rug craftsmanship.
Hamadan Rug History and Origin
Hamadan, one of Iran’s oldest cities, is a historic weaving hub and home to a rich variety of Persian village rug styles. The term “Hamadan rug” includes weavings from over a hundred nearby villages, all part of Hamadan province. Rug making in the area dates back centuries, but these rugs became especially prominent in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when they were exported widely. Western markets appreciated Hamadan rugs for their durability, bold patterns, and handmade authenticity. Many of the older pieces were dyed with natural pigments and occasionally woven with camel hair. The region’s ethnic diversity—including Persian, Kurdish, and Lori communities—led to a wide range of artistic interpretations under the Hamadan label. Despite modern shifts in production, the tradition continues, and antique Hamadan rugs are now treasured by collectors for their cultural richness and craftsmanship.
How to Identify Hamadan Rug? Hamadan Rug Pattern, Colors, Design
Hamadan rugs are recognizable by their coarse yet sturdy construction and distinct visual traits. A technical hallmark is the use of a single weft thread between knot rows, giving the rug a slightly thicker, more rustic feel than double-weft Persian rugs. Most designs are geometric, featuring central medallions, corner brackets, or all-over repeats like the Herati (fish) or boteh motifs. The layout tends to be angular, reflecting the village weaving style. Color palettes are typically bold, combining deep indigo blues and scarlet reds with ivory, beige, and warm accents like orange or brown. Borders are usually composed of multiple narrow bands filled with rosettes, geometric figures, or meandering vines. Although design styles vary between villages, the weaving structure, bold patterns, and earthy colors help identify rugs from the Hamadan region with confidence.
How Much Do Hamadan Rugs Cost?
Hamadan rugs are generally considered one of the more affordable options among antique Persian rugs. Smaller vintage pieces (3×5 ft or 91×152 cm) and runners typically range from $300 to $800 depending on condition and design. Mid-size rugs, such as 4×6 ft or 4×7 ft (around 120×180 to 120×210 cm), often sell in the $1,000 to $2,000 range. For example, a 4’2″ × 6’7″ (127×201 cm) Hamadan was priced at approximately $1,800. Larger room-size examples (like 7×10 ft or 213×305 cm) are less common and may range from $3,000 to $5,000. Prices depend on age, wool quality, knot density, and uniqueness of the design. Well-preserved antique Hamadans with natural dyes and fine motifs can command higher prices. Overall, Hamadan rugs offer great value for both collectors and first-time buyers seeking a durable and decorative Persian rug.
What Are Common Hamadan Rug Sizes?
Hamadan rugs are woven in a variety of sizes due to the diverse range of village producers. Common formats include small scatter rugs (around 2×3 ft / 60×90 cm) and area rugs such as 3×5 ft (90×150 cm), 4×6 ft (120×180 cm), and 5×7 ft (150×213 cm), which are ideal for bedrooms, entryways, or offices. Hamadan is also known for producing long runners—usually about 3 feet wide (91 cm) and ranging from 10 to 18 feet long (305 to 550 cm)—perfect for hallways. Larger room-sized rugs like 8×10 ft (244×305 cm) and 10×13 ft (305×400 cm) do exist, though they were often commissioned and are less common. Oversized Hamadan rugs (larger than 10×14 ft or 305×427 cm) are rare. Their versatility in size makes Hamadan rugs a flexible choice for nearly any interior space.
