Tabriz is East Azerbaijan’s capital city, located in Northwestern Iran. It is one of the ancient rug producing cities known for its production of diversified designer carpets. The art of rug weaving was taken to its height in the region under the rule of Shah Abbas during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. Rug design during this period was most often influenced by Safavid style. However after the fall of Safavid rule in the 18th century the Tabriz rug art-form diminished significantly. With the rise of the Qajar Dynasty in the 1880s however Tabriz once again revived itself as a major center for manufacturing Persian rugs bound for western markets.
The features of Tabriz rug designs
Tabriz oriental carpets feature Persian design patterns. This includes medallions and natural scenes like flowers and gardens. There are also Herati, Mahi, pictorial and 3D shaped rugs. The color schemes of these rugs make extensive use of terracotta, ivory, and copper tones along with shades of blues and a soft blend of green, gold, and salmon. The most expensive of all Tabriz rugs are the ones woven from silk.
The Tabriz region took rug and carpet production to its height and gave this intricate hand-made art-form a new dimension. The most astonishing feature of the 14th century Tabriz rugs was the expert weaving of miniature paintings into the rugs. This reflected exceptional craftsmanship on the part of the carpet weavers of this period and the seriousness of their commitment to perfecting their art. Today you will still find it hard to ignore the beauty and elegance of ancient Oriental Tabriz carpets. They are simply majestic in all respects.
In the modern era, Tabriz rugs are revived by major producers like Alabaf of Tabriz, Miri Brothers, and Galibafi Nassadji Tabriz.