Persian Bakhtiari Rugs

Divided into garden panels that each hold their own flower, tree or cypress, the Bakhtiari is one of the most recognisable designs in Persian village weaving.

Bakhtiari rugs come from Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province in western Iran, home to the Bakhtiari tribes, traditionally herders moving through the Zagros Mountains, many of whom settled in villages. The Khesti, or garden panel, design splits the field into compartments, while other pieces carry medallions or an all-over floral repeat in rust, navy, cream and red. Alongside them are vintage Lori rugs and runners from the neighbouring Lur tribes, woven without pattern books in bolder, freer geometry, usually wool pile on a cotton foundation.

Bakhtiari rugs are sturdy, so they handle a busy family living room or dining room well. The panel layout looks wonderful under a table, where each square stays visible, and the warm palette pairs with deep greens and timber.