Heriz Rugs

What is a Heriz Rug?

Heriz (Herez) rugs are a type of Persian rug made in Northwest Iran in the province of Azerbaijan. Several popular types woven in this region include Bakshis, Ahar, Gorevan, and Serapi. They are usually easily recognized by their typical rectilinear patterns which stray from the typical curvilinear style observed in most Persian carpets. The Heriz pattern is also copied in India both in bright deep traditional colors and also in softer earth tones.

Characteristics of Heriz Rugs

Some Heriz characteristics are thought to be derived from the classical Caucasian carpets of the 17th and 18th centuries. Other Heriz rugs produced in silk have characteristics which link closely to Persian carpets and are identified as Heriz rugs by their weave. 

Sizes and Designs

Heriz carpets are commonly found as room-sized but can also be found as runners and smaller area rugs. Heriz rugs usually have a classic large and bold medallion with corner designs like the rug pictured above. Other designs include multiple medallions, all-over patterns and repeating lattice designs. Floral patterns can also be found on Heriz rugs with unique angular contours. Heriz carpets usually have three stripes for their borders. The outer and inner narrow guards commonly contain a floral design and the wide middle stripe usually contains a continuous vine with leaves.

Brick, rust reds, and deep blue’s are common colors found in these rugs. Ahar Heriz rugs are much more curvilinear with soft lines and similar color palettes. The Heriz style has been copied in both India and Pakistan due to it's popularity. It can even be found in machine-made rugs now.

Components

The foundation is usually cotton with a wool pile and Turkish knots are used. There is a great variation in the quality of the wool and skill of the weaving in this rug type. For the most part Heriz rugs are woven with high quality wool and are long-lasting. These rugs are known for their durability. The pile is usually thick and heavy and the warp and weft of the foundation are thick cotton.

Browse more examples of Heriz rugs on our Pinterest Board!