Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a Persian Heriz Rug?
A Heriz rug is a hand-knotted Persian carpet woven in the Heris district of north-west Iran. These pieces are celebrated for their bold, geometric patterns and remarkable resilience. Unlike the curvilinear florals of city weavings such as Kashan or Isfahan, a Heriz favours a structured, architectural composition: stepped medallions, angular corner spandrels, and firm, crystalline linework.
Heriz carpets are Persian rugs produced in the Heris region of East Azerbaijan, northwest Iran, northeast of Tabriz. These rugs are made in the same-named settlement on the slopes of Mount Sabalan. The combination of tribal and decorative art styles used when hand knotting this carpet is a standard feature of Persian Heriz rugs.
Every knot is tied by hand. The pile, usually a firm mountain wool, rests on a cotton or wool foundation, depending on age. The result is a carpet that doesn’t just decorate a room — it defines it. The style sits comfortably within the family of Traditional Persian rugs, but it carries a tribal spirit that feels unmistakably human. Each village weaver draws from memory rather than from a painted pattern, which is why no two Heriz rugs are ever truly alike.
The Turkish double knot is used by most weavers, and the KPSI (knots per square inch) varies depending on the carpet's fineness. Persian Heriz carpets produced at the town's workshops are superior to those made in remote mountain villages. Silk Persian carpets are extremely delicately knotted and quite rare, as well as wonderfully beautiful. There are very few antique Persian Heriz rugs made of silk in existence and large carpets such as these are almost priceless!
Heris's weavers are regarded as the first in Persia to manufacture room-size and enormous carpets with nomadic, rustic themes and with a large medallion dominating the design. Persian Heriz carpets are well-known on the international market and go nicely with the decor of many European and American homes. These beautiful new and antique oriental rugs are also in high demand in the domestic market, particularly in the province of Azerbaijan.
Collectors admire the natural dyes and luminous tonality found in Antique Persian Heriz Rugs, while designers prize the strength and order that these pieces bring to modern interiors. They endure beautifully, acquiring a soft sheen and character that only time can produce.
- Where are Persian Heriz rugs made?
Heriz rugs come from the Heris district, east of Tabriz, high on the slopes of Mount Sabalan. The altitude, climate, and mineral-rich water give the local wool its unique properties. There’s an old belief that traces of copper in the grazing pastures make the wool stronger — and it may well be true, because Heriz wool is famously springy and resilient.
Surrounding villages such as Bakshaish, Gorevan, and Zarnaq each developed their own weaving idioms. Bakshaish carpets feel calm and spacious, Gorevans more rustic and full of contrast, while “Heriz proper” strikes a perfect balance between discipline and expression. Together, these villages created a network of weavers whose work became a cornerstone of the Persian carpet trade.
Many of the looms in this region were built to produce large, room-size pieces for export, which is why genuine smaller Heriz rugs — especially around 300 × 200 cm — are so difficult to find today. Their scarcity makes them particularly desirable, and they often command a higher price per square metre than their larger counterparts.
- Are Antique Persian Heriz rugs durable?
Heriz rugs are long-lasting and resilient, use natural dyes, and they can be passed down through generations. Mount Sabalan rests atop a large copper deposit, which contributes to the durability of Heriz rugs. Copper traces in sheep's drinking water results in high-quality wool that is significantly more durable than wool from other regions.
Few hand-knotted carpets rival the toughness of a Heriz. The secret lies in the wool. Sheep raised on cold mountain pastures grow thick, long fibres that combine elasticity with density. After shearing, the fleece is washed, carded, and spun — traditionally by hand — which gives the yarn a natural twist and spring. This elasticity allows each knot to compact tightly without becoming brittle, producing a pile that rebounds even after decades of use.
The structure of the carpet contributes equally to its endurance. Most Heriz rugs are double-wefted: two horizontal wefts beaten down after each row of knots. This creates a flat, solid handle that resists stretching and curling. The pile is clipped to a practical medium height and the cotton warps hold tension over time. As years pass, the surface polishes into a soft glow rather than wearing thin.
It’s this combination of material strength and structural integrity that has made Vintage Persian Heriz Rugs such favourites for everyday use. They anchor busy rooms without demanding delicate handling — a rare trait in any handmade textile.
- How can I tell if a Heriz rug is authentic?
A true Heriz is unmistakably hand-knotted. Turn the carpet over: the design will be visible in reverse, clear and slightly irregular, with each knot distinct. Machine-made copies, by contrast, show printed grids or perfectly uniform loops. The fringe on a genuine piece continues directly from the warp threads; it’s not sewn on afterwards. The sides are hand-overcast, often in slightly uneven yarns that tell the story of the weaver’s hand.
Texture offers further proof. Authentic Heriz wool feels warm and dense, carrying the faint natural scent of lanolin. It has life under the fingertips — a slight resistance as you stroke it with the nap. Synthetic imitations often feel flat, cold, or overly uniform. The back of the carpet, too, gives clues: you’ll see minute irregularities and subtle variations in spacing that no machine can replicate. In short, an authentic Heriz has personality; it breathes.
- What’s the difference between Heriz and Serapi rugs?
Both originate from the same district, but “Serapi” is generally used for earlier or more finely woven examples — usually from the late nineteenth or very early twentieth century. Serapi carpets tend to have open drawing, wider spacing between motifs, and a gentle equilibrium of form and colour. Their tones are often slightly faded, their outlines softer, lending them an almost architectural grace.
The typical “Heriz,” especially those woven in the twentieth century, exhibits stronger outlines, denser geometry, and a more vigorous palette. While Serapi examples attract collectors for their elegance and rarity, many Antique Persian Heriz Rugs equal them in craftsmanship and exceed them in practicality. In interior settings, Serapis lend calm refinement; Heriz rugs bring definition and bold presence. Both, however, share the same noble lineage.
- What designs and colours define Heriz rugs?
The defining motif is the great central medallion, usually octagonal or star-shaped, radiating outwards through angular lobes and stepped spandrels. The medallion-and-corner arrangement seen in classical Persian court carpets was re-imagined by Heriz weavers through the lens of village geometry — curves became facets, vines turned to jagged stems. This reinterpretation gave Heriz its distinctive graphic authority.
Around the medallion, the field teems with stylised leaves, rosettes, and hooked tendrils. Borders, typically three deep, contain repeating floral or vine patterns that act like architectural mouldings framing a building.
Colour is a major part of the appeal. The ground often glows in shades of madder red or brick, balanced by indigo blues, midnight tones, or ivory. Camel, teal, saffron, and pale green appear as highlights. Over time, vegetable dyes age gracefully: reds mellow into soft terracotta, blues settle into near-black, and ivory acquires a gentle golden cast. The phenomenon of abrash — those subtle shifts in shade from one dye batch to another — is not a flaw but the fingerprint of authenticity, bringing depth and life to the surface.
- What is the History Of Antique Persian Heriz Rugs?
Persian rug weaving has been practised for over 1,000 years. According to historical documents, in the 6th century, the King of Persia ordered an unparalleled carpet adorned with crystals, diamonds, and valuable metals.
Heriz, on the other hand, is a relatively new tradition. Historically, it was famous for antique rug dealers to promote carpets made in surrounding villages such as Herizes, responsible for Bakshaish rugs. During the nineteenth century, Heriz rugs were created mainly for export to Europe and the United Kingdom.
However, not all communities could equal the quality of the native Heriz weavers, resulting in various antique rug types. Although Heriz and Sarab are both in the Iranian province of East Azerbaijan, Tabriz, Heriz, Heriz Serapi and Serapi carpets are quite different.
- What knot density should I expect from a Persian Heriz rug, and does it matter?
Heriz rugs are woven at moderate densities, generally between thirty and ninety knots per square inch. Yet numbers don’t tell the whole story. A finely balanced 40-knot Heriz can outshine a tightly packed 100-knot piece if its drawing is confident and its wool well-spun.
The best guide to quality is touch. Run your palm lightly across the pile. If the wool feels soft yet firm, smooth but not slippery, you are handling a refined weave. If it feels overly thick and fuzzy, with blurred outlines and a “hairy” surface, the spinning may have been loose or the staple short — both signs of lower quality. Superior Heriz rugs have compact, resilient piles that gleam faintly under light. They are supple yet substantial, the very embodiment of controlled craftsmanship.
- How much do Persian Heriz rugs cost?
Pricing reflects a blend of age, size, condition, and artistry. Exceptional Antique Persian Heriz Rugs from the late nineteenth or early twentieth century, with natural dyes and well-preserved wool, can reach impressive figures among collectors. Mid-century Vintage Persian Heriz Rugs are often more accessible while still entirely hand-knotted and highly durable.
Size plays a curious role. Because most looms in the region were designed for large export carpets, true small Heriz pieces — roughly 300 × 200 cm — are scarce. Their rarity pushes them to the higher end of the market on a per-metre basis. Larger 9×12 and 10×14 foot examples are more common, making them relatively better value. Condition matters too: original fringes, secure sides, and balanced wear always enhance value. At the top end, colour harmony and confident drawing outweigh knot counts; these are the traits connoisseurs look for first.
- How should I clean and care for a Heriz rug?
Care for a Heriz as you would a fine piece of furniture — regularly, gently, and with respect for its materials. Vacuum once a week using suction only, avoiding rotating brushes that can damage the pile. Always follow the direction of the nap and take care around the fringes. If a spill occurs, blot it immediately with an absorbent white cloth; never scrub.
Every few years, have the carpet professionally hand-washed. Proper washing revives the colour, softens the pile, and removes dust that ordinary cleaning leaves behind. Rotate your rug periodically so that sunlight and foot traffic distribute evenly. While good natural dyes mellow attractively, direct sun for many years can dry the fibres, so filtered light is best. A dense felt underlay will keep the carpet stable and extend its life. With such care, a Heriz can remain vibrant for decades, its surface developing a silken sheen that no new rug can imitate. Both professional cleaning and underlay can be provided by the experts at London House Rugs.
- Do Heriz rugs shed?
A little shedding is perfectly normal at first. It’s simply loose fibre ends working free from the newly clipped pile. With regular, gentle vacuuming, this soon subsides. Persistent shedding, however, suggests that the wool was poorly spun or sheared too high. Well-made Heriz rugs, particularly older ones, shed very little because their fibres are long and tightly twisted.
The lanolin naturally present in high-quality wool also keeps fibres supple and resistant to breakage. Avoid chemical sprays or steam cleaners that strip this protective oil. When looked after properly, the pile of a Heriz remains dense, even, and pleasantly soft for generations.
- What's the typical size of a Persian Heriz Rug?
The classic Heriz format is the large room-size carpet — eight by ten, nine by twelve, or ten by fourteen feet — because these dimensions suited the grand Western interiors for which many were originally woven. Such proportions showcase the medallion to full effect. Smaller authentic Heriz rugs are far less common, especially around 300 × 200 cm, since few looms in the region were configured for narrow widths. These smaller examples are highly sought after today and frequently priced at a premium.
When placing a Heriz, consider proportion carefully. In a sitting room, leave twenty to forty centimetres of floor visible around the edge to frame the piece. In dining rooms, ensure the rug extends far enough that chairs remain on the pile when pulled back. The medallion can align beautifully with a central light or fireplace, helping to structure the space naturally.
- How can I tell if a Heriz rug is antique or vintage?
In broad terms, a rug over one hundred years old is classed as antique, while a piece made within the last sixty to eighty years is vintage. Antique examples — generally woven between about 1880 and 1920 — were produced with hand-spun wool and vegetable dyes. Their colours have mellowed, their pile has softened, and their foundations may be of wool as well as cotton. The drawing is often more open and relaxed, with elegant balance and restraint.
Vintage Persian Heriz Rugs from the mid-twentieth century tend to have cotton warps, tighter weaves, and bolder colouring, suited to post-war Western tastes. To the touch, antique wool feels velvety and cool, a texture developed only through years of oxidation and gentle wear. The presence of original ends and naturally faded tones are encouraging signs of authenticity. In short, the older the piece, the quieter and more harmonious its palette becomes — a beauty that no artificial ageing can reproduce.
- How do Heriz rugs compare with other Persian styles?
Heriz rugs stand between two worlds: the urbane refinement of city carpets and the spirited immediacy of Tribal Persian rugs. City pieces like those from Isfahan or Kashan are celebrated for intricate arabesques and minute knotting. Tribal rugs, by contrast, favour bold symbolism and freehand spontaneity. Heriz unites these traditions. Its geometry is disciplined enough to sit confidently in formal settings, yet the linework carries the energy of a village hand.
That balance explains their extraordinary versatility. In period interiors, a Heriz carpet complements timber panelling, stone fireplaces, and classic furniture. In modern homes, its geometry feels almost abstract, grounding open spaces with strength and warmth. Few carpets possess such timeless adaptability.
- Are Heriz rugs suitable for homes with pets or children?
Very much so. The dense, springy wool pile can withstand years of activity, while the naturally oily fibre repels dust and light spills. The geometry and varied colours of a Heriz pattern disguise minor blemishes far better than plain or pale floor coverings. For families, a sound Vintage Persian Heriz Rug provides comfort, warmth, and durability without demanding special care.
Antique examples, particularly those with delicate ends or finely clipped piles, are best placed in quieter areas where they can be enjoyed rather than tested. But even these remain tougher than most handmade carpets of comparable age. A Heriz is a living thing — meant to be walked on and admired in equal measure.
- How can I quickly judge the quality of a Heriz Rug?
The eye and the hand tell the truth. Start by studying the composition. The medallion should sit calmly within the field, the borders should run evenly, and the corners should meet cleanly without compression. Strong, rhythmic drawing signals an experienced weaver. Colour is equally revealing: fine pieces have depth without harshness, a sense of harmony even where hues contrast.
Then touch the surface. Good wool feels sleek and resilient, not fuzzy or rough. Lift a corner; a quality Heriz is supple with body, never stiff. Turn it over and inspect the reverse — the pattern should be clearly legible, the rows of knots steady. When sight, touch, and balance all align, you’ve found something exceptional.
- What’s the difference between Heriz, Bakshaish, and Gorevan rugs?
These names mark subtle variations within the same weaving district. Bakshaish carpets, usually the oldest, have large, open motifs and a quiet dignity, often in softer earth tones. Gorevan pieces, from neighbouring villages, are heartier, with vigorous outlines and strong contrast. The classic Heriz sits between the two — structured yet expressive, with its trademark medallion-and-corner design.
Collectors of Antique Persian Heriz Rugs appreciate these distinctions as shades of personality rather than rigid categories. For interior designers, they offer choices within a single harmonious tradition: Bakshaish for tranquillity, Gorevan for rustic character, Heriz for perfect equilibrium.
- Why London House Rugs?
Selecting the right Heriz is not just about the rug — it’s about who helps you find it. London House Rugs has specialised in fine handmade carpets for over four decades, earning a reputation built on expertise, authenticity, and service. Every rug in our collection is personally chosen for its craftsmanship and integrity. We source directly from trusted suppliers and private collections, ensuring that each piece, whether an Antique Persian Heriz Rug with generations of history or a robust Vintage Persian Heriz Rug ready for daily life, meets our exacting standards.
Our team understands both the artistry and the practical realities of living with handmade carpets. We offer professional cleaning, restoration, and installation, tailoring every service to the individual piece. Interior designers and private clients alike rely on our knowledge to pair the right rug with the right space.
When you purchase from London House Rugs, you’re not simply buying a floor covering — you’re acquiring a piece of cultural heritage, carefully curated and supported by decades of experience. It’s this combination of connoisseurship, honesty, and care that makes London House Rugs the natural choice for those who value genuine craftsmanship and enduring beauty.
In essence, a Heriz rug is more than an object of decoration; it is a living record of Persian artistry — bold, resilient, and deeply human. And through the expertise of London House Rugs, that artistry finds its way into contemporary homes, continuing a story that began in the high villages of Heris more than a century ago.