Kashan Carpet

Handwoven Carpet Industry in Kashan

Handwoven Iranian rugs are globally recognized as symbols of the art and rich culture of this land, and Kashan rugs are among the most prominent examples in this field. The weaving of Kashan rugs has long been admired by royal courts and international markets, and today they remain one of the most popular and prestigious types of handwoven rugs in Iran. In addition to their beauty and unique designs, Kashan rugs are also renowned for their quality, symbolizing the skill, precision, and effort of Iranian weavers.

This article explores the history, characteristics, types of Kashan rugs, and their production process to provide those interested in the world of handwoven rugs with a comprehensive understanding of this ancient Iranian art.

The Beginning of Rug Weaving in Kashan

History of Kashan Rugs

Kashan, a city with thousands of years of history at the heart of Iran, has always been recognized as an artistic and commercial hub. Throughout various periods of Iranian history, including the Sassanid and Safavid eras, it was one of the most important centers for producing handwoven rugs. Due to its geographical location along the Silk Road, Kashan has long been connected to trade and the transfer of goods to various parts of the world. During these periods, Kashan rugs gained special attention in global markets and royal courts for their beauty and high quality.

In the Safavid era, when Iran was experiencing a flourishing of art and architecture, rug weaving reached its peak. During this time, Iranian artists, including those in Kashan, designed intricate and luxurious rugs that were not only visually stunning but also meticulously woven with great care and precision.

Unique Features of Kashan Rugs

Kashan rugs are highly popular due to the following features. Here are some of the most important characteristics of these rugs:

High-Quality Materials

One of the standout features of Kashan rugs is the use of high-quality raw materials. The wool used in these rugs is sourced from sheep living in mountainous regions. This wool is highly durable and ideal for weaving handwoven rugs. Additionally, some special Kashan rugs use natural silk, which enhances the rug’s shine and elegance.

The colors used in Kashan rugs are also derived from natural plants, minerals, and organic materials. Because of their natural origins, these colors are highly stable and do not fade over time.

Precision and Refinement in Weaving

Kashan rugs are known for their precise and detailed weaving. The number of knots per square meter in these rugs can reach over 800,000 knots, reflecting the high precision and unparalleled skill of the weavers. This meticulous weaving process ensures that the rug’s designs are finely detailed and beautiful.

Diverse and Unique Designs

Kashan rugs are renowned for their diverse and unique designs. Each Kashan rug can feature various motifs, including floral patterns, arabesques, geometric shapes, and wildlife. Famous patterns from Kashan rugs include “Shah Abbasi,” “Golestan,” “Shikargah,” and “Islimi.” These designs are usually complex and created with great care by skilled weavers.

Natural and Beautiful Colors

The colors in Kashan rugs are typically extracted from natural materials, ensuring they do not change over time. Over the years, these colors remain vibrant and clear. Common colors used in Kashan rugs include red, blue, cream, green, and turquoise, each with its own specific meaning.

The Process of Producing Kashan Rugs

The production of Kashan rugs is a complex and time-consuming process requiring great precision and skill. Below are the various stages involved in making these rugs:

Types of Kashan Rugs

Kashan rugs vary in terms of technical features and design, each suitable for different purposes. Here are some of the main types of Kashan rugs:

700-Knot Rugs

These rugs typically have fewer knots per square meter and are suitable for high-traffic areas like offices and large homes. They are also more affordable compared to rugs with higher knot density.

1000-Knot Rugs

1000-knot rugs have more knots, making them finer and more detailed. These rugs are generally used in elegant and luxurious spaces.

1200-Knot Rugs

1200-knot rugs are highly intricate, with a high knot density and complex designs. These rugs are often used in special, high-end spaces and are considered works of art in luxury homes and galleries.

Important Tips for Buying a Kashan Rug

Pay Attention to the Knot Count and Density

Knot count and density are important factors that significantly affect the quality and price of the rug. For high-traffic areas, rugs with lower knot density may be more suitable.

Check the Raw Materials

Before purchasing a rug, ensure the quality of the materials used.

Buy from Reputable Sellers

Always purchase Kashan rugs from trusted and recognized sellers to ensure you are getting a high-quality rug.

Kashan rugs, as a symbol of Iranian art and culture, have always held a special place among the world's handcrafted arts. These rugs are not only admired for their beauty but also for their exceptional quality and durability. Their meticulous weaving, attractive designs, and use of high-quality materials make Kashan rugs one of the most beloved choices for fans of handwoven rugs.

Kashan Carpet

Handwoven Carpet Industry in Kashan

Handwoven Iranian rugs are globally recognized as symbols of the art and rich culture of this land, and Kashan rugs are among the most prominent examples in this field. The weaving of Kashan rugs has long been admired by royal courts and international markets, and today they remain one of the most popular and prestigious types of handwoven rugs in Iran. In addition to their beauty and unique designs, Kashan rugs are also renowned for their quality, symbolizing the skill, precision, and effort of Iranian weavers.

This article explores the history, characteristics, types of Kashan rugs, and their production process to provide those interested in the world of handwoven rugs with a comprehensive understanding of this ancient Iranian art.

History of the Carpet Industry in Tehran

Kashan, a city with thousands of years of history at the heart of Iran, has always been recognized as an artistic and commercial hub. Throughout various periods of Iranian history, including the Sassanid and Safavid eras, it was one of the most important centers for producing handwoven rugs. Due to its geographical location along the Silk Road, Kashan has long been connected to trade and the transfer of goods to various parts of the world. During these periods, Kashan rugs gained special attention in global markets and royal courts for their beauty and high quality.

In the Safavid era, when Iran was experiencing a flourishing of art and architecture, rug weaving reached its peak. During this time, Iranian artists, including those in Kashan, designed intricate and luxurious rugs that were not only visually stunning but also meticulously woven with great care and precision.

Unique Features of Kashan Rugs

Kashan rugs are highly popular due to the following features. Here are some of the most important characteristics of these rugs:

High-Quality Materials

One of the standout features of Kashan rugs is the use of high-quality raw materials. The wool used in these rugs is sourced from sheep living in mountainous regions. This wool is highly durable and ideal for weaving handwoven rugs. Additionally, some special Kashan rugs use natural silk, which enhances the rug’s shine and elegance.

The colors used in Kashan rugs are also derived from natural plants, minerals, and organic materials. Because of their natural origins, these colors are highly stable and do not fade over time.

Precision and Refinement in Weaving

Kashan rugs are known for their precise and detailed weaving. The number of knots per square meter in these rugs can reach over 800,000 knots, reflecting the high precision and unparalleled skill of the weavers. This meticulous weaving process ensures that the rug’s designs are finely detailed and beautiful.

Diverse and Unique Designs

Kashan rugs are renowned for their diverse and unique designs. Each Kashan rug can feature various motifs, including floral patterns, arabesques, geometric shapes, and wildlife. Famous patterns from Kashan rugs include “Shah Abbasi,” “Golestan,” “Shikargah,” and “Islimi.” These designs are usually complex and created with great care by skilled weavers.

Natural and Beautiful Colors

The colors in Kashan rugs are typically extracted from natural materials, ensuring they do not change over time. Over the years, these colors remain vibrant and clear. Common colors used in Kashan rugs include red, blue, cream, green, and turquoise, each with its own specific meaning.

The Process of Producing Kashan Rugs

The production of Kashan rugs is a complex and time-consuming process requiring great precision and skill. Below are the various stages involved in making these rugs:

Types of Kashan Rugs

Kashan rugs vary in terms of technical features and design, each suitable for different purposes. Here are some of the main types of Kashan rugs:

700-Knot Rugs

These rugs typically have fewer knots per square meter and are suitable for high-traffic areas like offices and large homes. They are also more affordable compared to rugs with higher knot density.

1000-Knot Rugs

1000-knot rugs have more knots, making them finer and more detailed. These rugs are generally used in elegant and luxurious spaces.

1200-Knot Rugs

1200-knot rugs are highly intricate, with a high knot density and complex designs. These rugs are often used in special, high-end spaces and are considered works of art in luxury homes and galleries.

Important Tips for Buying a Kashan Rug

Pay Attention to the Knot Count and Density

Knot count and density are important factors that significantly affect the quality and price of the rug. For high-traffic areas, rugs with lower knot density may be more suitable.

Check the Raw Materials

Before purchasing a rug, ensure the quality of the materials used.

Buy from Reputable Sellers

Always purchase Kashan rugs from trusted and recognized sellers to ensure you are getting a high-quality rug.

Kashan rugs, as a symbol of Iranian art and culture, have always held a special place among the world's handcrafted arts. These rugs are not only admired for their beauty but also for their exceptional quality and durability. Their meticulous weaving, attractive designs, and use of high-quality materials make Kashan rugs one of the most beloved choices for fans of handwoven rugs.