Misc

Do you know what is a Kashan rug?

Kashan Rugs are Persian rugs that are highly sought after for their beauty, quality, and intricate detail. Made from top-quality natural wool, silk, or a combination of the two, Kashan rugs have been treasured for centuries. Originating in the city of Kashan in central Iran, these rugs have an unmistakable timeless beauty that will elevate any décor.

Kashan rugs are produced using traditional Afghan weaving methods, creating a series of symmetrical knots. The more knots per centimeter, the higher the rug is in quality – with some Kashan rugs containing over 1000 knots per square inch. The rugs are recognized for their distinct floral or traditional medallion designs, often featuring colors like rust, ivory, navy, and deep green.

Traditionally, Kashan rugs have been used to decorate the floor of a home or office. They are known for their luxurious feel and the unique way that the colors play off the light. They become warm, inviting and the ideal backdrop to any space. Today, Kashan rugs can also be used as wall décor, as well as to upholster furniture.

When purchasing a Kashan rug, it is important to consider the quality of the rug. The knots per square inch, the material used, and the conditions in which it was produced are all key evaluation factors. Many consumers find it beneficial to seek out hand-knotted rugs, which are made with the highest quality material and superior craftsmanship.

At the end of the day, a Kashan rug is an investment in style and quality. Investing in a rug of this quality means you’ll enjoy it for years to come. A timeless beauty, the Kashan rug will be with you through lifetimes of unforgettable moments and that is an investment well worth it.

Different Types of Kashan Rugs

Kashan rugs are a type of Persian rug that is known for their intricate designs and high-quality craftsmanship. They are hand-knotted in the city of Kashan, which is located in central Iran. Here are some of the different types of Kashan rugs:

  • Classic Kashan. These rugs are the most common type of Kashan rug and are known for their intricate floral and medallion designs. They typically feature a central medallion surrounded by intricate floral patterns and a border.
  • Mohtashem Kashan. These rugs are named after the master weaver Ustad Mohtashem, who was active during the late 18th century. They are known for their exceptionally fine wool and delicate designs.
  • Shah Abbas Kashan. These rugs are named after the Safavid king Shah Abbas I, who ruled Iran during the 16th century. They are known for their bold designs, vibrant colors, and large central medallions.
  • Animal motif Kashan. These rugs feature animal motifs, such as birds, deer, and horses, as the central design element. They are often made of silk and wool and are known for their intricate details.
  • Hunting scene Kashan. These rugs depict hunting scenes, such as falconry or hunting with dogs, as the central design element. They are often made of silk and wool and are known for their vibrant colors and intricate details.
  • Silk Kashan. These rugs are made entirely of silk and are known for their intricate designs and fine craftsmanship. They are often more expensive than other types of Kashan rugs due to the cost of the material and the amount of time it takes to make them.
  • Kashan rug with vase. These rugs feature a vase as the central design element, surrounded by intricate floral patterns and a border. They are often made of wool and silk and are known for their delicate designs and fine craftsmanship.

These are just some of the different types of Kashan rugs. Each rug is unique and has its own distinctive design and characteristics.


Kashan Rug Weaving Techniques

Iran’s Kashan is a city that has long been recognized for its weaving industry. Kashan rugs are well-known for their complex patterns, premium wool, as well as natural dyes. These exquisite rugs are made using weaving techniques that are particular to the area and have been handed down through the years.

Here are some of the weaving techniques used in Kashan rug making.

Knotting Technique

The knotting technique used in Kashan rug weaving is known as the asymmetrical or Persian knot. This technique involves knotting the wool around two warp threads, then pulling the knot downwards to create a pile. The weaver alternates between knotting around a single warp thread and two, creating a staggered pattern. This technique results in a soft and dense pile, which is characteristic of Kashan rugs.

Designing Technique

Kashan rugs are known for their intricate designs, which are typically floral or geometric in nature. The designs are created using graph paper, where each square represents a knot. The weaver follows the pattern on the graph paper, knotting each square accordingly. The weaver also uses their intuition and creativity to add unique elements to the design.

Dyeing Technique

Kashan rugs are known for their use of natural dyes, which are derived from plants, insects, and minerals. The dyes are mixed in large pots, and the wool is dyed by immersing it in the pot. The wool is then hung to dry in the sun. The natural dyes used in Kashan rug making produce rich and vibrant colors that are long-lasting.

Finishing Technique

Once the rug is complete, it is removed from the loom and washed to remove any excess dye or dirt. The rug is then stretched and trimmed to create an even pile. The edges of the rug are finished by hand, either with a decorative border or with fringe.

The weaving techniques used in Kashan rug making are highly specialized and require skill and patience to master. The result is a beautiful and unique rug that is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts around the world.


What are the most common designs and colors of Kashan rugs?

Kashan rugs are some of the most highly sought-after Persian rugs due to their exquisite designs, fine craftsmanship, and historical significance. The most common designs and colors of Kashan rugs include:

  • Medallion design. The medallion design is the most common pattern found in Kashan rugs. The central medallion is surrounded by intricate floral and vine motifs, creating a beautiful and elegant pattern.
  • Shah Abbasi design. The Shah Abbasi design is another popular pattern on Kashan rugs, featuring a central medallion with four corner pieces that resemble peacock feathers. The corners are often adorned with floral motifs.
  • Herati design. The Herati design is a repetitive pattern that features a diamond-shaped medallion in the center, surrounded by four fish or leaves. This pattern is often found on the border of Kashan rugs.
  • All-over floral design. Some Kashan rugs feature an all-over floral design, with flowers and vines covering the entire surface of the rug. These designs can be quite intricate and detailed, with multiple layers and colors.

As for colors, Kashan rugs typically feature rich and vibrant hues, such as deep blues, greens and red. The background color is often ivory or beige, which helps to showcase the intricate patterns and motifs. Gold and yellow are also common accent colors used in Kashan rugs.

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