The Oriental Collection - Catalog - Page 29
REZAS VILL AGE RUGS
Heriz
Heriz rugs are Persian rugs from north-western Iran, northeast of Tabriz, and are
produced in the village of the same name on the slopes of Mount Sabalan. They are
known for their larger sizes and robust surface which is from the high-quality wools
that are knotted onto a cotton warp. This production method results in a durable rug
that has the potential to last for generations. Knot density of the Heriz rug is 150,000
- 250,000 knots per sqm.
A major factor in the durability of Heriz rugs is that Mount Sabalan sits on a major
deposit of copper. The traces of copper in the drinking water of sheep in the area
produces a high-quality wool that is more resilient to abrasion than wool from other
areas.
Heriz rug weavers often make the designs in bold, geometric patterns with a large
medallion in the centre. Such designs are passed down for generations and often
woven from memory.
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