Vintage Spotlight – Antique Hamadan Persian Carpet
This week’s vintage spotlight blog comes from our 1stDibs catalog, our 3’ x 6’ Antique Persian Hamadan carpet. Woven over 100 years ago, this carpet is still in like-new condition and has a unique story hidden within the pile. Keep reading to discover more about Hamadan Persian Rugs.
Located in midwest Iran, Hamadan was one of the largest carpet manufacturing cities in Iran. Like other popular carpet styles, Hamadan is an overarching term used to label carpets from surrounding tribes and towns. Rugs originating from this area also labeled their carpets as Nahavand, Tuiserkan, Malayer, Lilihan, or Hosseinabad. This marketing tactic led to Hamadan carpets’ popularity and is the fundamental reason why these carpets vary so much, including knot count, pile density, and varying patterns. Most Hamadan carpets share a few characteristics, such as their rich indigo and dyer-crab red/orange tones and the Herati medallions.
Our antique runner is a perfect example that showcases the similarities and craftmanship in Hamadan carpets. This hand-knotted carpet measures 3’3” x 6’5” and is hand-knotted in warm shades of pink, indigo blue, orange, forest green, and cream wool. Inspired by a traditional Persian flower garden, the design showcases Herati medallion with additional geometric paisley, birds, butterflies, branches, and vine motifs that adorn the field and border. Four details regarding this carpet are especially noteworthy. First, this Hamadan design pulls inspiration from Lilihan carpets, especially the carpet’s curved and angular tree of life branches. Second, it incorporates multiple traditional Persian textile elements. These include the floral medallion and circle of life theme among its floral, bird, and butterfly motifs. Third, the pattern is more geometric than most Hamadan designs, which typically depict more curvilinear motifs. Lastly, what truly makes this carpet so unique is the presence of small crucifixes hidden throughout the field. These motifs signify that this carpet was woven in Armenia. Additionally, the crucifix motifs imply that the weaver was Christian, which gives this carpet a touch of added character.
Aside from being over 100 years old and in excellent condition, the addition of these small marks makes this carpet exceptionally rare and unique. If you liked this Antique Hamadan carpet, make sure to check out the Orley Shabahang digital showroom at 1stdibs.com. Here we have curated some of our most exquisite antique rugs for sale. Whether you love antique, vintage, modern, or contemporary styles, we have the perfect carpet for your floor!