Persian Kurdish Rugs

Iran's Kurdish weavers make some of the sturdiest rugs in Persia, from the tightly packed Bidjar to the finely knotted Senneh and the bold tribal Koliai.

Bidjar rugs from Kurdistan Province are known as the iron rugs of Persia, because each row is packed down hard with a heavy comb, giving a dense, firm rug. Senneh, the old name for Sanandaj, is known for fine knotting and small, repeating motifs. Koliai pieces from Kermanshah have bolder geometry. Hossainabad rugs and runners from the Hamadan region bring medallions and angular flowers, and Kurdish Herki runners have a thick, glossy pile. A few Afghan Chobi rugs in Bidjar designs sit here too.

A Bidjar is heavy and lies flat without shifting, which makes it a good choice under a dining table or in a busy living room. Hossainabad and Herki runners are easy to place in a hallway and wear well.