TEHRAN - Sarouk carpets, renowned for their exceptional quality and enduring beauty, are among the most famous carpets woven in Iran’s Markazi province.

These rugs are crafted with high-quality, tough wool using the traditional Persian knot technique.

One of the distinguishing features of a Sarouk carpet is its blue weft threads, often combined with salmon or tomato-red hues, mixed with ivory and blues, creating a visually striking and traditional floral design.

The patterns of Sarouk carpets draw inspiration from the cursive arabesque designs of Isfahan carpets. However, Sarouks are known for their simplified details, set against a red background and featuring blue paisleys in the form of diamonds. This unique blend of design elements gives Sarouk rugs their distinctive and timeless appeal.

Local weavers in various villages of the province employ a special technique for inserting the wefts. After each row of knots, they insert two wefts, adding another weft between every five to ten rows. This method enhances the durability and texture of the carpets, ensuring they can withstand decades of wear.

The margins of Sarouk carpets are typically adorned with traditional motifs such as “Samavari” and “Kharchangi,” as well as the classic “Shah Abbasi” designs. These intricate patterns add to the rug’s overall aesthetic and cultural significance.

A notable historical example of a Sarouk carpet can be found in the Green Palace Museum, part of the Saadabad Cultural and Historical Complex in northern Tehran. This particular carpet, which once graced the bedroom of Reza Shah, the founder of the Pahlavi dynasty, features plain paisleys and is woven entirely of silk, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship and luxurious materials used in Sarouk carpets.

Despite modern advancements, Sarouk rugs continue to be produced today using the same traditional methods as during their early production, with the only exception being the post-production dye process. This adherence to time-honored techniques ensures that each Sarouk rug maintains its exceptional quality and authenticity.

Sarouk carpets remain popular and highly sought after, known for their ability to withstand the test of time. Their combination of durability, intricate designs, and rich cultural heritage makes them bestsellers in the world of Persian rugs.

For those seeking a piece of Iranian craftsmanship that embodies both history and beauty, a Sarouk carpet is a choice to consider.

AM