Persian Rugs Guide: Buying, Identifying, and Maintaining
A Persian rug is a purchase for life — and often for generations. But how do you identify a genuine hand-knotted rug, what types are there, and how do you choose the right size? In this guide, after over 30 years of experience at Galerie Hamming van Seventer, we share everything you need to know. Prefer to browse immediately? View our collection of Persian rugs.
What is a Persian Rug?
A Persian rug is a hand-knotted carpet, traditionally woven in Iran (formerly Persia) from high-quality sheep's wool, sometimes in combination with natural silk on a cotton or silk warp. Each rug is made knot by knot by hand — a large one can easily take months to years of work. Precisely because of this, no two rugs are exactly alike, and a good piece will last for decades.
Real or Machine-Made? How to Identify a Hand-Knotted Rug
The main difference is on the back. With a hand-knotted rug, you will see the pattern mirrored and — importantly — slightly irregular on the reverse; the knots are never perfectly machine-made. Other characteristics:
- Fringes: In handmade rugs, the fringes are an extension of the warp (the rug itself), not sewn on separately.
- Small irregularities: Slight variations in line and color (“abrash”) indicate handwork and natural dyes — this is a sign of quality, not a flaw.
- Backing: Gently fold the rug open; if you see individual knots, it is hand-knotted. A smooth, rubbery, or glued backing indicates machine-made.
Knot Density and Quality
The knot density (knots per square decimeter) determines the fineness of the pattern and partly its value. Finely knotted rugs such as Nain and Tabriz have a very high knot density; more robust nomadic and village rugs are more coarsely knotted, but this gives them a sturdy and strong character. Higher is not always "better" — it depends on the style you are looking for.
The Most Famous Types of Persian Rugs
Each region has its own style, color, and pattern:
- Nain — refined, often in soft ivory and blue tones, sometimes with silk accents.
- Tabriz — classic and precise, with medallions and high knot density.
- Kashan — elegant medallion patterns made from fine cork wool.
- Heriz — strong, geometric medallions; robust and beautiful for generations.
- Kilims — flat-woven (not knotted), thinner, reversible, and colorful.
View the complete collection of Persian rugs for the full range. Prefer flat-woven or Moroccan? Also read our guide to kilim rugs or the guide to Berber rugs.
Choosing the Right Size
A common mistake is choosing a rug that is too small. Under a dining table, the chairs should remain on the rug even when pulled out; in the living room, ideally, the front legs of the sofas should rest on the rug. Unsure about the size for your space? Use our free rug visualizer to virtually see a rug in your room, or make use of our free in-home viewing service.
Vegetable Dyes and Sustainability
The most beautiful Persian rugs are vegetable-dyed (madder, indigo, walnut). These natural colors age beautifully and fade warmly instead of becoming dull. A wool, hand-knotted rug is also exceptionally sustainable: 100% natural material, lasting for decades, and fully repairable.
Maintenance: How to Keep Your Rug Beautiful for Years
Vacuum regularly (without the beater bar on the fringes), rotate the rug 1–2 times a year to distribute wear, and treat stains immediately with water and possibly a mild soap — never rub aggressively. For thorough cleaning or damage, we recommend professional cleaning & restoration; a good rug is almost always repairable.
Buying a Persian Rug
Buy from a specialist who will show you the rug in person and offer honest advice. At Galerie Hamming van Seventer, you can visit our galleries in Groningen, Amstelveen, and Hilversum — check opening hours. We take ample time, without sales pressure, and offer a unique in-home viewing service so you can choose comfortably at home. Ready to browse? Start with our Persian rugs.