Located in central Iran, the city of Arak has long been associated with one of the most refined and internationally acclaimed styles of Persian carpet weaving — the Sarouk rug. Although Arak is the modern urban center, the term “Sarouk” refers to a nearby village where the tradition of high-quality carpet making blossomed during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The rise of Sarouk carpets coincided with the peak of Persian carpet exports to the West, particularly during the Qajar and early Pahlavi eras. Western demand — especially from the United States — profoundly influenced the designs, color palettes, and sizes of the rugs. As a result, Sarouk carpets became symbols of Persian luxury in Western homes.
The patterns often reflect a balance between traditional Persian motifs and Western tastes, making Sarouk rugs highly collectible and timeless.
Each Sarouk rug is a harmonious blend of fine materials and extraordinary skill. The durability of these rugs is such that many antique Sarouk pieces are still in excellent condition today, over a century after their creation.
An important phase in Sarouk’s history came in the 1920s–1930s, when many rugs were re-dyed in the U.S. to suit American interior design preferences. These became known as “American Sarouks”, often distinguished by their all-over floral patterns and reddish tones. This export phenomenon speaks volumes about the global reach and adaptability of Arak’s weaving heritage.
Dense, luxurious pile
Often medium to large-sized rugs, perfect for salons or grand interiors
Symmetry and elegance in layout
Timeless designs that blend tradition with Western influence
Sarouk carpets are not just functional items — they are cultural artifacts representing adaptation, craftsmanship, and aesthetic diplomacy. They stand at the intersection of Iranian artistry and global appreciation.
Located in central Iran, the city of Arak has long been associated with one of the most refined and internationally acclaimed styles of Persian carpet weaving — the Sarouk rug. Although Arak is the modern urban center, the term “Sarouk” refers to a nearby village where the tradition of high-quality carpet making blossomed during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The rise of Sarouk carpets coincided with the peak of Persian carpet exports to the West, particularly during the Qajar and early Pahlavi eras. Western demand — especially from the United States — profoundly influenced the designs, color palettes, and sizes of the rugs. As a result, Sarouk carpets became symbols of Persian luxury in Western homes.
The patterns often reflect a balance between traditional Persian motifs and Western tastes, making Sarouk rugs highly collectible and timeless.
Each Sarouk rug is a harmonious blend of fine materials and extraordinary skill. The durability of these rugs is such that many antique Sarouk pieces are still in excellent condition today, over a century after their creation.
An important phase in Sarouk’s history came in the 1920s–1930s, when many rugs were re-dyed in the U.S. to suit American interior design preferences. These became known as “American Sarouks”, often distinguished by their all-over floral patterns and reddish tones. This export phenomenon speaks volumes about the global reach and adaptability of Arak’s weaving heritage.
Dense, luxurious pile
Symmetry and elegance in layout
Often medium to large-sized rugs, perfect for salons or grand interiors
Timeless designs that blend tradition with Western influence
Sarouk carpets are not just functional items — they are cultural artifacts representing adaptation, craftsmanship, and aesthetic diplomacy. They stand at the intersection of Iranian artistry and global appreciation.
