American Design Rugs: A Forgotten Chapter of Persian Rug History

Did you know that some of the most iconic “Persian rugs” in American homes were actually designed by Westerners and woven by Iranian artisans?

This fascinating chapter of rug history began in the late 19th century, when European and American companies traveled to Iran with their own design ideas — and left with treasures that blended East and West

From Qajar Courts to Western Living Rooms

Between 1880 and 1940, during the Qajar and early Pahlavi dynasties, a new wave of interest in Persian craftsmanship swept through Europe and the United States.

Major trading companies — such as Ziegler & Co. from England and American importers of Sarouk rugs — set up operations in cities like:

• Hamadan

• Tabriz

• Kerman

• Kashan

• Mashhad

These regions were already renowned for their rug-making traditions. But this time, something different happened.

Handwoven premium designer carpet with intricate patterns

Western Designs, Persian Hands

Western buyers came to Iran with custom sketches, floral motifs, pastel tones, and more minimalist preferences compared to the dense, intricate patterns of traditional Persian rugs.

They wanted something tailored to European and American tastes — lighter palettes, larger open fields, and symmetry that suited modern interiors.

Iranian merchants accepted these commissions and passed the designs along to local weavers — mostly women in rural villages — who would spend months or even years bringing these visions to life, knot by knot, entirely by hand.

The result? A completely new style of Persian rug:

• Made in Iran

• Styled in the West

Spacious living room with a large rectangular Persian rug

The Rise of “American Sarouk” & “Ziegler” Rugs in Persian Rug

Some of these designs became so well-known that they earned distinct names in the rug world.

For example:

• “American Sarouk” rugs, known for their soft red fields and floral medallions, were produced specifically for U.S. consumers.

• “Ziegler rugs”, designed by the British firm Ziegler & Co., brought a more spacious and Western aesthetic to carpets from the Sultanabad and Mahal regions.

These rugs were still Persian in weave, material, and spirit , but international in look and purpose.

Modern living room with colorful patterned premium designer carpet

Explore More in Persian Rug!!!

Curious to see examples of these designs?

Browse our curated selection of vintage and antique rugs — including original pieces from Hamadan and American Sarouk styles.

www.elegancerugdecor.com

Vintage Persian Sarouk Rug 4'8" x 7' | Elegance Rug Decor

Vintage Persian Sarouk Rug 4'8" x 7' This elegant handwoven rug is a breathtaking showcase of floral artistry. Ivory field is filled with elegant sprays of roses, palmettes, curling vines, and floral clusters in a refined palette of rosy pinks, soft peach, navy blue, lavender, pistachio green, and burgundy, woven with fine Kork wool on a cotton foundation, it features a high knot density of approximately 300–400 KPSI. This piece likely dates from the 1950s–1970s. Elegance Rug Decor – Free U.S.

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Explore our selection and find the rug that will bring elegance and comfort to your home.

Luxurious Afghan rug with rich colors and detailed patterns

Remember, investing in a high-quality rug is an investment in your home’s atmosphere and your everyday comfort. With the right size, color, pattern, and care, your premium designer carpet will be a cherished part of your home for years to come.

Ready to find your perfect rug? Browse our exclusive collection of luxary rugs today and enjoy free shipping anywhere in the US!