How do I care for my rug?

Vacuum regularly with the suction attachment only, avoiding revolving brush heads that pull at the wool pile. Professional cleaning by specialists in antique textiles is essential every few years. Protect the carpet from direct, prolonged sunlight to prevent uneven fading of natural dyes. Using a quality underlay prevents slipping and cushions the foundation against floor wear.

Where were these rugs woven?

These carpets originate from the town of Heriz and surrounding villages in the mountainous north-west region of Persia, historically known as Persian Azerbaijan. This area developed a distinct geometric design vocabulary independent of court workshops. Local families and village cooperatives produced these heavy-duty floor coverings using locally sourced wool and traditional upright looms. The geography directly influenced the sturdy structure and bold aesthetic.

How do I date a Heriz rug?

Dating relies on stylistic evolution, dye analysis, and structural indicators such as the handle of the wool and the selvage finish. Nineteenth-century examples often exhibit softer palettes and more open, spacious medallion compositions. Early twentieth-century pieces tend towards tighter geometric drawing and brighter, more saturated terracotta grounds. Comparing knot counts and structural stiffness against known archival benchmarks helps narrow the decade of production.

Serapi is a trade term applied to older Heriz carpets, typically dating from the nineteenth century, featuring coarser knotting and more expansive, relaxed designs. These pieces often display a lighter overall palette with prominent ivory or soft blue fields. Collectors distinguish Serapi carpets by their artistic freedom and subtle abrash within the wool. They represent an earlier phase of the region's weaving tradition before standardised commercial production took hold.