One-of-a-kind

Hamadan ShahrbafHand KnottedRug

Dark pink / Black218 x 326 cm

The Hamadan region in the Middle East is one of the oldest centres of rug production, with a history stretching back to ancient times. Located on the high plateau of the region, the area is historically significant as a hub of the trade routes that crossed the land, influencing the diverse styles that emerged from its many villages. The Shahrbaf designation represents a specific, higher standard of weaving quality often associated with workshops that sought to elevate the traditional village aesthetic into something more refined and durable.

The term 'Shahrbaf' refers to the urban or city-workshop style of weaving, which typically utilises a more sophisticated technical approach compared to simpler nomadic or village rugs. This involves a more disciplined use of knotting techniques and often higher-grade wool, resulting in a more consistent and lustrous pile. For the collector, this means acquiring a rug that balances the rustic charm of regional traditions with the technical precision required for longevity.

Visually, these rugs are celebrated for their sophisticated use of medallions and ornate floral patterns, which draw inspiration from the surrounding natural landscape and historical architectural motifs. The deep blues and vibrant reds are classic hallmarks of the region, often achieved through traditional dyeing methods that provide a depth of colour that ages gracefully. The layout often features a central medallion surrounded by a detailed border, a design that provides a sense of balance and harmony to any space.

Collecting a rug from this tradition is about preserving a legacy of skill and cultural narrative. These pieces are valued not only for their aesthetic appeal but for what they represent: a connection to a slow, deliberate craft that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. By bringing a Hamadan Shahrbaf into your home, you are participating in a long-standing tradition of valuing high-quality, hand-crafted textiles that bridge the gap between utility and art.

This rug is meticulously hand-knotted, a process that represents the pinnacle of traditional textile craft. With 250,000 knots per m2 across its 7.1 m2 surface, this rug contains approximately 1.77 million individual knots, each placed by hand by a skilled artisan. This immense labour of love is essential to achieving the intricate design and the dense, long-lasting pile that defines such a high-quality piece.

The production of a rug of this size and complexity requires months of dedicated focus. Each knot is tied with precision, a skill passed down through generations, ensuring that the finished product is not only beautiful but structurally sound. The weight of 24.9 kg is a testament to the sheer amount of premium wool used in its creation, signalling a density and quality that simply cannot be achieved through mechanical means.

By choosing this hand-knotted rug, you are supporting a craft tradition that values patience and precision over speed. The time and effort invested in every square centimetre result in a durable, high-density surface that will maintain its structure and appeal for decades. It is a functional work of art that stands as a testament to human skill and dedication.