The Oriental Collection - Catalog - Page 14
QUALITY
KNOT DENSITY and RUG QUALITY
Knot density is an important indicator of the quality of an ori-
The finest Persian rugs made by particularly well-known and
ental rug. It is measured per square meter and also provides
skilled master knotters, such as Davari, Haghighi, Habibian
information about fineness and durability. The basic equation
or Seirafian, have become collector’s items. Signed rugs by
is simple: the more knots, the higher the quality. Coarse rugs
these masters not only guarantee quality and pedigree, but
start at 50,000 knots per square meter and the finest rugs
also a rarity that is worthy of preservation.
can have knot densities that reach an astronomical 1,100,000
knots per square meter. In determining the exact knot density
A rug is usually signed on the outer edge, visible on the
in a rug, measure 7 times 7 centimeters and count the knots
surface. The corresponding name is knotted into the rug by
within that area. The knots are multiplied by each other and
hand in Arabic. The name of the master knotter, combined
again multiplied by 200. The result is the number of knots per
with the origin of the rug, serves like a brand name that allows
square meter.
buyers to assess the level of expertise of the weaver and the
rarity of a rug.
The process of rug knotting is based on centuries of tradition and each of the regions has developed and evolved their
Persian rug knotting is an extremely challenging and
own knotting techniques. Generally, four different knot types
time-consuming skill. Not only is the Persian knotting tech-
can be distinguished. The symmetrical knot, a robust knot
nique extremely durable in comparison to other knot types,
that originates from the Turkish area. The asymmetrical knot,
but the density is also almost unmatched. Persian rugs make
which allows for denser knotting and is sometimes called
up a large percentage of rugs at the 500,000 knots per
a Persian knot. And finally, the Jufti and Tibetan knots, but
square meter level and are virtually the only rugs available
these are less popular.
with 1,000,000 knots per square meter or higher. And when
investing in a Persian rug, it’s almost certain that its value will
The knot density of a rug is determined by one main factor,
increase over time.
the knotter. As a rule, an experienced knotter will knot 10,000
knots a day, which means they will need about 50 days to
create a single square meter of a 500,000 knot per square
meter rug.
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