Persian rugs: All styles, collections, and differences
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Not all Persian rugs are the same. Their regional names encompass different pattern traditions, colors, formats, and production methods: from finely ornamented classics and geometric nomadic motifs to flat-woven kilims and pictorial rugs. This guide introduces all 18 subcollections from German Carpet Shop and helps you understand the differences. The descriptions are intended as a stylistic guide; the details for each individual product are what matter.
All Persian rug collections at a glance
Jump directly to a collection:
- Bakhtiari rugs
- Bakhtiari kilims
- Khorasan rugs
- Keshan rugs (Kashan)
- Afghan kilim rugs
- Village & Nomadic Rugs
- Tabriz Mahi Rugs
- Sultan Abad Exclusive
- Hamadan Rugs
- Bidjar Rugs
- Moud Rugs
- Ghom Silk Rugs
- Shiraz Rugs
- Kerman Rugs
- Nain Rugs
- Sirjan Rugs
- Pictorial Rugs
- Poschti Qashqai Rugs
What makes each collection special?
Bakhtiari rugs
Bakhtiari rugs are associated with the region of the same name in western Iran. Many traditional designs feature divided pattern fields, floral ornaments, and rich, warm colors. Their structured composition can give a room a classic, distinctive look. Compare them with Bakhtiari kilims too: the names are related, but a kilim is flat-woven and is not constructed like a classic knotted rug.
Bakhtiari kilims
This collection combines the Bakhtiari tradition with the kilim weave. Flat-woven kilims typically have no dense, raised pile. Their graphic surface and clean shapes work well with modern, natural, or eclectic interiors. The main difference from knotted Bakhtiari rugs is not just the pattern, but above all the construction, feel, and care.
Khorasan rugs
Khorasan is a large historical region in northeastern Iran and is known for diverse rug-making traditions. Depending on the piece, you may find floral ornaments, medallions, classic patterns, or stronger contrasts. The region’s name therefore does not refer to a single, fixed look. Compare the pattern, colors, dimensions, and material of each model.
Keshan rugs (Kashan)
Keshan, also spelled Kashan, is often associated with central medallions, floral ornaments, and decorative borders. These balanced compositions suit classic living spaces and can create an elegant focal point in a seating area. Compared with many Nain designs, Keshan patterns often look richly ornamented; however, the actual effect depends on the individual rug.
Afghan kilim rugs
Afghan kilims combine flat-woven construction with geometric shapes and contrasting blocks of color. They often have a bold, graphic look. Unlike knotted rugs, their surface has no dense pile. When choosing one, check the material, dimensions, and care instructions for the individual piece.
Village & Nomadic Rugs
These rugs are often associated with geometric motifs, stylized plants or animals, and a vibrant, handcrafted character. Their patterns can appear less strictly symmetrical than those of some formal city rugs. They complement wood, linen, natural tones, and individual, eclectic interiors.
Tabriz Mahi Rugs
Tabriz is a historic rug-producing center in northwestern Iran. “Mahi” is often associated with a small, recurring fish or Herati motif. This pattern can look very fine and rhythmic: it features plenty of detail without necessarily letting a single central medallion dominate the eye. This often sets it apart from more expansive compositions.
Sultan Abad Exclusive
Sultan Abad designs are known for their spacious, easily recognizable ornaments and distinctive decorative impact. Larger floral motifs and expansive pattern fields can visually tie furniture together. Compared with very intricate designs, the overall pattern often takes center stage. Before buying, check that the size and pattern scale suit your room.
Hamadan Rugs
Hamadan is one of the best-known rug-producing regions in western Iran. The name encompasses various traditional patterns, including geometric shapes, medallions, and borders. This collection is a good choice if you're looking for a regionally influenced, classic style and want to compare different designs. However, the name alone doesn't tell you everything about the material or durability.
Bidjar Rugs
Bidjar rugs are often associated with a dense, firm construction and detailed traditional patterns. This compact appearance can distinguish them from lighter-looking or flat-woven rugs. However, actual craftsmanship, material, condition, and care instructions all matter when assessing suitability for everyday use.
Moud Rugs
Moud is associated with the Khorasan region in northeastern Iran. Traditional examples often feature fine floral patterns and orderly compositions. As with Keshan, ornaments and medallions can create a classic look. Compare both collections by pattern size, motif density, color distribution, and border rather than by name alone.
Ghom Silk Rugs
Ghom, also spelled Qom, is especially known for its silk rugs. Silk can bring out fine details and a distinctive sheen that changes with the light. This makes the collection appealing if you’re looking for elegant, precisely rendered patterns. Silk can be sensitive to friction and unsuitable cleaning products, so be sure to follow the material and care instructions.
Shiraz Rugs
Shiraz is located in southern Iran and is associated with regional and nomadic rug-making traditions. Many designs look lively thanks to geometric shapes, stylized motifs, and rich colors. Compared with finely detailed Nain patterns, these designs often appear bolder. However, the exact pattern varies from piece to piece.
Kerman Rugs
Kerman in southeastern Iran is known for its diverse rug-making tradition. Classic designs may feature floral vines, medallions, and spacious compositions. This collection is a good choice if you’re looking for a decorative rug with traditional patterns. Compare the color palette and motif layout with Keshan, Moud, or Sultan Abad, as regional names do not guarantee an identical appearance.
Nain Rugs
Nain rugs are often associated with light cream and beige tones, blue accents, and finely detailed floral ornaments. They can look classic while also suiting bright, modern, or minimalist rooms. Compared with many geometric Shiraz designs, typical Nain patterns tend to emphasize fine ornamental detail.
Sirjan Rugs
Sirjan is located in Kerman Province and is associated with regional rug-making and weaving traditions. This collection adds further regional varieties, with patterns, colors, and craftsmanship varying from piece to piece. Kerman and Sirjan styles can overlap, so compare the specific motifs, materials, and constructions.
Pictorial Rugs
Pictorial rugs focus more on a figurative motif or scene than on a repeated ornament or a classic medallion. This can make them look like decorative works of art. Before deciding whether a particular rug is suitable as floor or wall decor, consider its motif, level of detail, format, and intended use.
Poschti Qashqai Rugs
“Poshti” traditionally refers to a smaller rug format; Qashqai refers to a well-known nomadic rug-making tradition in southern Iran. These pieces may feature geometric motifs and a vibrant, handcrafted character. Depending on their actual size, they can serve as a compact accent, unlike larger rugs. Check the dimensions before deciding where to place one.
Which collection suits your interior style?
- Classic and ornamental: Compare Keshan, Tabriz Mahi, Moud, Kerman, and Nain.
- Geometric and nomadic in style: Discover Shiraz, Village & Nomadic Rugs, and Poshti Qashqai.
- Large-scale patterns and a strong presence: Take a look at Bakhtiari and Sultan Abad Exklusiv.
- Flat-woven, graphic designs: Compare Bakhtiari Kilim and Afghan Kilim.
- Fine details and sheen: Discover Ghom Silk.
- Figurative motifs: Browse the Pictorial Rugs.
This classification is a guide, not a hard-and-fast rule. Rugs from the same collection can differ in pattern, color, material, size, and construction.
Material, care, and size: what to look for
The collection name does not automatically indicate how a rug was made. Wool is common in many traditional rugs; silk often allows for particularly fine details. Kilims are flat-woven, while knotted rugs have a pile. Check the product description for material, construction, dimensions, and care instructions.
- Vacuum using a setting suitable for the material, and avoid harsh brushes.
- Carefully blot fresh spills instead of rubbing.
- Test cleaning products on an inconspicuous spot.
- Have delicate, valuable, or heavily soiled rugs professionally cleaned when needed.
Measure the intended area before buying. In the living room, a rug can tie the seating area together; in the dining room, leave enough space for chairs to be pulled back. Smaller formats like Poshti can serve as a focal accent, while larger patterns need more space.
Explore the entire Persian rug collection
Whether you’re looking for a classic focal point, geometric nomadic motifs, a flatwoven kilim, a fine silk rug, or a pictorial rug, the full Persian rug collection is your starting point. Open relevant subcollections side by side and compare product images, dimensions, materials, and care instructions to make an informed decision.
Frequently asked questions
Are all Persian rugs hand-knotted?
No. The name or pattern alone does not prove a particular construction method. Check the details for the specific product.
What is the difference between a kilim and a knotted rug?
A kilim is flatwoven and usually has no dense, raised pile. Knotted rugs have a pile formed by knots. This results in differences in surface, feel, and care.
How do rugs in the same collection differ?
Even within a regional style, patterns, colors, materials, dimensions, and construction may vary. Use the collection title as a guide and the product details to make your final choice.
In summary: The variety of Persian rugs lies in their differences. From Bakhtiari, Khorasan, and Tabriz Mahi to kilims, Qom silk rugs, pictorial rugs, and Poschti Qashqai rugs, each collection offers a distinct approach to patterns and interior styles. Explore the full selection and compare your favorites directly.
Discover matching rugs and collections
Would you like to compare the differences using specific models? Start with our Persian rug collection and explore regional styles such as Nain rugs, Bidjar rugs, Hamadan rugs, and Tabriz Mahi rugs.
One specific example is the beige Indo-Nain rug (306 × 201 cm). For each item, compare the actual dimensions, material details, and construction before making your decision.
More collections to compare
In addition to regional Persian rug styles, at German Carpet Shop you’ll also find Mamluk rugs with distinctive patterns, as well as patchwork and vintage rugs with a unique look. Compare the specific product details, as origin, material, and construction may vary from one model to another.