TheAhar rug, also known as Ahar carpet, is a type ofPersian carpet made in the town ofAhar, located in the town ofAhar County which was the capital ofKaradag Khanate inIran.[1]
The name of the rug references the city and region of origin.[2]
Over the last 30 years, Ahar rugs have emerged as a recognizable group in the marketplace, and they are sold in many parts of Iran outside their town of origin.
Ahar carpets are woven by people who live in Ahar county as well as by nomads in the region.[3] They are made in Ahar city and villages including Qunigh, Arpaliq, Cheshme Vazan, GangalAbad, ZandAbad, Galandar, Bohol, Afil, Nagareh koob, Vardin, Qarajeh,Qurchi Kandi,Mazraeh-ye Hajj Abedin, Mazraeh-ye Mazare,Kaqalaq andKalhur.[4]
The design incorporates a large medallion,[5] and it is geometric with curvilinear elements.[6] Thus, it is characterized as arectilinearmedallion-spandrel design.[4]
An Ahar rug may be recognized by its bluewefts, especially in the medallions.[7][6] The background is generally some shade ofred,brick, orrose, and the large corners, created by the spandrels, are typicallyivory-colored.[5][6]
A standard Ahar rug measures approximately 9 x 12 feet.[6] It is designed with a higherknot count, thought not exceeding that of many carpets withgeometric design. The rug has acotton orwool[5] base with aknot density of 65 symmetrical knots per square inch.[7] The rugs are known for their quality compared to other Persian handmade rugs.[6]
It is a distinctivecarpet in theHeriz group of carpets.[8][9] It is influenced by the Heriz andTabriz styles.[6]
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