Shiraz Rug
What is a Shiraz Rug?
A Shiraz rug is a hand-knotted Persian tribal rug produced by nomadic and semi-nomadic weavers around the city of Shiraz in southwestern Iran. These rugs are typically made with a wool pile and wool foundation and use the asymmetrical Persian (Senneh) knot. Shiraz rugs reflect the styles of regional tribes—especially the Qashqai, Khamseh, and Luri—with designs that include bold geometric patterns, diamond-shaped medallions, and symbolic animal or bird figures. One hallmark is the depiction of stylized nightingales, which represent happiness and joy. The weave is coarser than that of city rugs, offering a more rustic, folk-art charm. Color palettes lean warm and earthy, dominated by deep reds, dark blues, orange, golden yellow, and ivory accents. With their expressive motifs and tribal authenticity, Shiraz rugs embody the enduring spirit of Iran’s nomadic weaving traditions in a more settled, decorative format.
Shiraz Rug History and Origin
Shiraz rugs are woven by tribal communities in the Fars province of southern Iran, surrounding the city of Shiraz. While the city itself was not historically a major rug producer, it served as a central trading hub where nearby nomadic tribes like the Qashqai and Khamseh sold their woven goods. The tradition of rug weaving in the region spans centuries and is officially recognized as part of Iran’s cultural heritage. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as some tribes transitioned to more settled lifestyles, their rugs became larger and more structured due to the use of vertical looms. The term “Shiraz rug” became a catch-all label for tribal rugs traded in Shiraz’s bazaars. These carpets preserved the symbolic, colorful artistry of the tribes while adapting slightly to market preferences. Today, antique Shiraz rugs are admired for their storytelling motifs and cultural authenticity, offering insight into the lives and beliefs of southwestern Iran’s weavers.
How to Identify Shiraz Rug? Shiraz Rug Pattern, Colors, Design
Shiraz rugs are identifiable by their tribal motifs, soft wool, and rustic construction. They often have a coarse weave with wool foundations and colorful wefts—typically red or brown. A common visual trait is the barber-pole selvage, a twisted white-and-brown wool cord that borders the rug’s sides, a signature feature of Shiraz and Qashqai pieces. Design-wise, Shiraz rugs frequently feature rows of diamond medallions, stepped lozenges, or hooked shapes filled with small icons like birds, animals, stars, or human figures. These motifs reflect nomadic symbolism and often appear in spontaneous, asymmetrical arrangements. The border designs usually consist of narrow bands, often showcasing the classic “wineglass and leaf” pattern or rosettes along a vine. Color schemes include deep madder reds, dark blues, saffron, and ivory, applied with a lively, bold touch. Altogether, Shiraz rugs convey a sense of folk expression—each one telling a unique visual story rooted in tribal life.
How Much Do Shiraz Rugs Cost?
Shiraz rugs are typically more affordable than finer city rugs, making them accessible to both collectors and first-time buyers. Prices for small vintage Shiraz rugs (around 3×5 ft or 91×152 cm) often range from $300 to $800, while mid-sized pieces such as 5×8 ft (152×244 cm) can sell for $800 to $2,000. For example, a 5×4 ft Shiraz was listed for about $2,600, and a 6×8 ft example priced around $1,376. Very large or older pieces with unique motifs or exceptional condition can fetch $3,000 or more, though this is less common. Many high-quality Shiraz rugs are available online for under $1,000, offering great value. Prices depend on factors such as age, knot quality, wool luster, and pattern appeal. With their bold tribal character and cultural richness, Shiraz rugs provide an excellent entry point into the world of Persian carpets at a more budget-friendly price point.
What Are Common Shiraz Rug Sizes?
Shiraz rugs generally range from small scatter sizes to medium and room-size formats, reflecting the transition from nomadic to semi-settled weaving. Traditional sizes include 4×6 ft (122×183 cm), 5×8 ft (152×244 cm), and 6×9 ft (183×274 cm), which are among the most common. Tribal tent life originally favored smaller rugs, but as weavers began using fixed looms, larger pieces—such as 8×10 ft (244×305 cm) or even 9×12 ft (275×366 cm)—became possible, though still relatively rare. Shiraz rugs are also known for gallery dimensions like 5×9 ft (152×274 cm), which suit long corridors or narrow rooms. Smaller throw rugs and tribal bag faces, often around 2×3 ft (60×90 cm), are sometimes sold individually and labeled as Shiraz. While oversized carpets (larger than 10×14 ft or 305×427 cm) are not typical of this style, the versatility and portability of Shiraz rugs make them ideal for casual, eclectic, or bohemian interiors.
