About Persian Mashad Rugs

Mashad, a historic city in northeastern Iran, has long been a prominent weaving center, especially known for producing large room-sized rugs. These rugs are prized for their detailed craftsmanship, balanced floral designs, and use of high-quality kork wool—often resulting in a soft, lustrous finish.

Distinctive Features of Mashad Rugs

Mashad rugs typically feature:

  • Elaborate central medallions set against richly detailed floral fields.
  • A strong use of burgundy, navy blue, and ivory, often with highlights of soft blues, pinks, and greens.
  • Symmetrical designs, woven with Persian (asymmetrical) knots and high knot densities, sometimes exceeding 300 KPSI in finer examples.

  • Extensive use of corner spandrels and intricate borders, adding to their architectural feel.

Many pieces from Mashad are also signed, particularly those attributed to the Amoghli workshop, one of the most famous weaving families in the region. Rugs by the Amoghli brothers are considered among the finest examples of Mashad weaving and are highly collectible.

Mashad as a City Rug

Mashad rugs are considered city rugs, produced in organized workshops rather than village homes. This structured production allowed for more complex and consistent patterns, finer knotting, and a more luxurious finish than many tribal or village rugs.

Quality and Collectibility

The best Mashad rugs—especially those from the early to mid-20th century—combine beauty with durability. Collectors appreciate them for their:

  • Dense, soft pile.
  • Elegant color palettes.
  • Masterful execution of classical Persian motifs.

FAQ About Mashad Carpets

What makes Mashad rugs unique among Persian carpets?
Mashad rugs stand out for their large format, intricate medallion-and-corner designs, and fine wool quality. They also often display a richer use of color compared to many other Persian city rugs, with deep reds and blues dominating the palette.

Are Mashad rugs considered city or village rugs?
Mashad rugs are city rugs, produced in organized workshops. Unlike village rugs, which are more improvisational, Mashad carpets follow highly detailed patterns with refined execution.

What is an Amoghli Mashad rug?
An Amoghli rug refers to a piece woven by the Amoghli family workshop in Mashad, active in the early 20th century. These rugs are known for their extraordinary quality and often bear a woven signature in the border.

How can you tell if a rug is from Mashad?
Mashad rugs typically have a central medallion, a rich red or burgundy field, and a very soft feel due to kork wool. The back will often reveal fine knotting and symmetry. Some also feature signatures indicating their workshop origin.

Are Mashad rugs valuable?
Yes, especially older Mashad rugs in good condition, or signed pieces from famous workshops like Amoghli, can command high prices among collectors due to their craftsmanship and historical value.