Isfahan Carpet

Isfahan Carpet — Fineness, Art, and Authenticity at a Glance

The Isfahan carpet is one of the most exquisite and distinguished handwoven carpets of Iran — a creation celebrated worldwide as a symbol of elegance, harmony of colors, and the perfection of Persian design.

History & Background

The art of carpet weaving in Isfahan flourished during the Safavid dynasty, when the city became the capital of Iran under Shah Abbas the Great. He gathered master artisans from across the country, turning Isfahan into a true hub of Persian art. It was in this era that magnificent designs such as *Shah Abbasi*, *Toranj*, *Lachak*, *Eslimi*, and *Hunting Scene* patterns emerged from the workshops of Isfahan.

Aesthetic and Technical Features

Isfahan carpets are admired for their precision, fineness, and the use of top-quality materials. Their main characteristics include:

• High Knot Density: Usually between 400 and 800 knots per square inch — a sign of exceptional craftsmanship.
• Material: Pile made from fine Kork wool or natural silk, with cotton or silk warp and weft.
• Colors: Soft, elegant tones such as deep blue, ivory, beige, crimson red, turquoise, and earthy shades.
• Designs: Symmetrical compositions featuring central medallions (*Toranj*), *Shah Abbasi* flowers, *Boteh* motifs, and *Eslimi* arabesques with intricate borders.

Value and Significance

An Isfahan carpet is not merely a floor covering — it is a work of art and cultural heritage. Many are displayed as wall hangings or treasured in private collections around the world. Owing to their exceptional quality and artistic authenticity, Isfahan remains one of Iran’s most important centers for the production and export of fine Persian carpets.