Where were these rugs made?

These floor coverings originate from West Persia, specifically around the village of Sarouk and nearby districts like Jozan and Ferahan. Local weavers utilised regional materials and traditional motifs passed down through generations. Production spanned from the nineteenth century into the twentieth century, encompassing both specific village workshops and broader regional centres within the Hamadan area.

How do I care for an old rug?

Regular gentle vacuuming without a rotating beater bar prevents dust accumulation within the wool pile. Professional cleaning suited for antique textiles preserves the natural lanolin in the wool. Keeping the piece out of direct, harsh sunlight protects the soft vegetable dyes from fading over time. Using an appropriate underlay prevents slipping and cushions the cotton foundation against hard floors.

What is a village rug?

A village rug is woven on domestic looms in rural communities rather than large urban manufactories. These pieces often reflect local design interpretations and spontaneous artistic choices by individual weavers. They combine regional wool resources with traditional patterns unique to specific valleys or tribal groups across Persia.

How can I tell the age of a piece?

Age is assessed through structural indicators such as the type of wool, the construction of the cotton foundation, and the composition of the dyes. Stylistic elements like specific floral arrangements and colour combinations also offer clues to the period of manufacture. Comparing construction techniques with dated examples helps narrow down production to specific decades between the late nineteenth century and the 1930s.