A Tabriz rug falls into the standard category of carpets that come from Tabriz, the capital city in the East Azarbaijan Province. As one of the most ancient rug weavers, the capital has been known to create a broad array of carpets. Interestingly enough, Tabriz has some of the finest artistic designs, some of which include medallion, figural, pictorial, and 3-d shapes.
Some of the major producers include Alabaf of Tabriz, Miri Brothers, Galibafi Nassadji Tabriz, and several others. As some of the largest carpet producers in the world, and especially in Iran, many major traditions of artistic decoration are the result of beautifully adorned Tabriz Persian rugs.
The height of popularity for Tabriz rugs was between the 12th-16th centuries, and roughly two hundred masterpieces that belong to the golden period include what appears to be a hybridization of weaving and small paintings, and a high standard of craftsmanship is essential for their completion. Basically, the school of Tabriz is divided into two parts: Ardabil and Tabriz.
There are a myriad of carpets that were actually designed in Tabriz, some were flat weave, and others were pile design. The styles varied in terms of their composition and their attention to detail. From one generation to the next, these rugs were precious heirlooms, and most topics regarding their styles included ornamental patterns with color that consist of cream, blue, navy, or red.
The most common type of Tabriz rug falls under the name “Lachak turanji.” And in the middle, as well as the corners of the carpet, there are “turanji” and Persian triangles. As far as the turanji that resides in the center of the rug, the image symbolizes the moon. The lozenges that add to the overall appearance symbolize fish, which often rise to the surface of the water around midnight; at which point, they begin admiring the reflection of the moon and all of its glory. This image dates back as far as the 9th and 10th centuries, and many topics happen to be drawn by some of the best Oriental poets.
The Haris carpets are certainly worth mentioning, as they represent the connection to the village of Herez, which is just North East of Tabriz. These Haris carpets are quite unique in their appearance, as the commonality of details often is created on the foundation of the “lachak turanj,” which is created by the linear patterns and curves. In time, however, the patterns became serrated and dotted; therefore, an independent pattern was formed as a result. Typically, a carpet of this nature is woven from memory, and often a sketch is not necessary. Moreover, inhabitants of Haris have also produced an exceptional amount of flat-weave rugs, Kilims, and palases.
As far as Tree carpets are concerned, their actual composition is what makes them stand out from other designs. Often these carpets are under the title “Derakhti,” and in Afghanistan, they are known as “Bagghi.” Lastly, in Azerbaijan, the carpets are called “Agaily.” In most cases, at the center of these rugs are a series of trees and bushes, and in some cases, an entire cluster of trees can be found at the center. Every tree has a slightly different appearance, making sure to copy the previous one entirely.
Often the subject of many Tabriz rugs is the image of Omar Khayam residing next to his sweetheart. And often poetry is conveyed as part of the essence of the rugs, and it is the poetry of Khayam that permeates the presence with great force. Often entire verses and pieces from additional poets, namely Saadi, Hafez, Ferdosi, and others can be found on the rugs.
A Tabriz rug is an artistic and poetic masterpiece that will enrich your home and give you a lifetime of enjoyment.
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