The Timeless Beauty of Tabriz Rugs: History Meets the Auction Block

Few weaving traditions are as celebrated as those from Tabriz, one of Iran’s oldest carpet-producing cities. Located in northwestern Iran, Tabriz has been a center of rug making for centuries, dating back to the Safavid dynasty in the 16th century. The city’s workshops, often supported by royal patronage, became famous for producing rugs with exceptional artistry, intricate designs, and technical mastery.

A Legacy of Craftsmanship
Tabriz rugs are known for their high knot density, often exceeding 400 knots per square inch, allowing weavers to create incredibly detailed patterns. Their designs range from medallion and floral motifs to hunting scenes and even architectural or cartographic imagery. Materials vary from wool to pure silk, sometimes blended to achieve both durability and sheen. Collectors value Tabriz rugs for their combination of beauty, artistry, and historical significance.

Upcoming Highlights on Bidsquare
This month, several remarkable Tabriz rugs are crossing the auction block, each reflecting a different aspect of this weaving tradition:

1. An Exquisite Iran Persian Tabriz Shirfar Silk Wool Rug (Signed) (Lot 20)
This piece exemplifies the fine craftsmanship of Tabriz weaving, blending silk and wool to create a luminous surface with intricate detail. The presence of a signature further enhances its desirability, marking it as the work of a master.

September 5 Star Auctions
By 5 Star Auctions
September 18, 2025
Estimate: $35,000 - $55,000

2. Iran Tabriz Hand-Knotted Silk Large Persian Rug – Map of Iran (Lot 120A)

A fascinating example of cartographic artistry, this silk Tabriz rug depicts the Map of Iran, showcasing not only technical skill but also cultural pride. Such narrative pieces are highly prized for their rarity and storytelling quality.
Prime Fine Art & Antiques Auction
By Prime Auction Gallery
Sep 19, 2025 
Estimate: $8,000 - $12,000

3. Tabriz 9’6” x 13’0” (Lot 5721)

A grand-scale rug in classic Tabriz style, this lot demonstrates the city’s tradition of creating room-sized masterpieces meant to anchor elegant interiors. Its size, detail, and quality make it a collector’s treasure.
Fine Oriental Rug Auction
By Parvizian Fine Rugs
September 21, 2025 
Estimate: $10,000 - $12,000

Why Collectors Seek Tabriz Rugs
Whether valued for their silk shimmer, signature, or scale, Tabriz rugs embody the confluence of Persian artistry and cultural heritage. They are both functional and decorative, capable of elevating interiors while standing as works of art in their own right.

As these upcoming lots demonstrate, the tradition of Tabriz weaving continues to inspire collectors worldwide, offering a tangible link to centuries of craftsmanship.

Register to bid on Bidsquare.com.