Antique Persian Farahan Rug – A Masterpiece of Noble Grandeur
Size: 10'9" × 17'2" | Origin: Farahan, Central Iran | Age: c. 1880–1900
Here’s a rug that speaks the language of elegance, history, and handmade artistry—without saying a single word.
This massive antique Persian Farahan rug is not just a floor covering; it’s a statement piece woven with patience, intention, and cultural pride.
At over 17 feet in length, it was likely commissioned for an aristocratic Persian home or public reception room in the Qajar era.
🧶 The Weave & Structure
This rug was tightly woven using Persian (asymmetrical) knots, averaging around 120–140 KPSI (knots per square inch).
The precision of this knot count lets even the finest floral stems and curving vines appear crisp and fluid.
It was made on a vertical loom by 2–3 skilled weavers, and a carpet of this size and quality could easily take over 18 months to complete.
If we were to compensate those weavers at today’s artisan rates (and we should!), each would’ve earned somewhere between $3,000–$4,000+ over that time—just for labor.
That doesn’t even include the wool, natural dyes, design preparation, or finishing.
🐑 Wool, Cotton & Hand-Spun Magic
The pile is woven from hand-spun local wool, known for its softness and natural sheen.
The base (warp and weft) is made of sturdy cotton, keeping the rug flat and strong.
The result? A rug that’s aged gracefully for over 120 years and still has a full, rich texture underfoot.
🎨 All-Natural Dyes & Timeless Color
This Farahan glows with all-natural vegetable dyes, including:
A vibrant terra-cotta red field
Deep midnight indigo and ivory in the medallion
Soft olive, pistachio, rose pink, pale blue, and saffron scattered throughout
These aren’t just pretty colors—they’re made from madder root, indigo, pomegranate rind, oak gall, and other local plants, all hand-mixed by master dyers.
Over time, they’ve developed the mellow, slightly variegated tones you see here—something machine dyes simply can’t replicate.
🏛️ From Farahan, Land of Royal Weavers
Farahan rugs come from a district in central Iran, near Arak (formerly Sultanabad).
In the 19th century, this area was a major export hub, supplying the European market with refined, elegant carpets.
Unlike tribal or village rugs, Farahans were often woven based on pre-designed cartoons created by master designers.
Their style? Delicate yet grand. Floral yet geometric. Sophisticated yet soulful. It’s why Farahans were favorites of both Persian elites and European collectors.
🌸 Design & Meaning
This rug features a bold central medallion with spiraling floral arabesques, surrounded by an open, spacious terracotta red field dotted with detailed flower sprays, vines, and branches.
It’s framed with ivory corner spandrels filled with winding green leaves and stylized lotus flowers—symbols of rebirth and harmony.
The deep indigo border shows cypress trees, floral bouquets, and weeping willows—common themes in classical Persian gardens.
Every element feels intentional, balanced, and poetic.
This rug may have been inspired by the Persian concept of “Golestan”, or paradise garden—a symbol of eternal peace, abundance, and the spiritual beauty of nature.
⏳ Why This Rug Matters
It’s over 120 years old—a true antique
Woven in a renowned artistic center of the Persian Empire
Colors are completely natural, matured like fine wine
Rarity: Farahans of this size, condition, and balanced design are hard to find
Condition: Excellent for its age, with some gentle abrash (color shift) that adds character
And yes, it’s still 100% functional and floor-ready for modern interiors
🏠 Perfect For…
Grand living rooms and formal dining spaces
Large entry halls or gallery-like settings
Designers looking for museum-grade pieces
Collectors building a portfolio of historic Persian rugs
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Curious to see this piece in motion? DM us for a full video walkthrough, close-up photos, or to schedule a home trial. Antique Farahan rugs don’t come around often—especially ones this bold and balanced.