What is an Oriental Rug?
Oriental rugs are hand-knotted carpets traditionally made across the region stretching from the Eastern Mediterranean and Central Asia to East Asia—including countries such as Iran/Persia, Turkey, Afghanistan, India, Pakistan, the Caucasus and China. Their hallmarks are intricate patterns, rich symbolism, and a breathtaking diversity of motifs and colors. As an umbrella term, “oriental rug” includes all subtypes—such as Iranian/Persian, Turkish, Afghan, Pakistani, Indian, Caucasian or Chinese origins—and are always handcrafted, usually in line with centuries-old traditions and techniques.
Key Provenances & Oriental Rug Overview
Persian Rugs:
The legendary Persian rugs of Iran (Qom, Tabriz, Isfahan, Nain, Kashan, Bijar, Kerman, Sarouk, Mashhad, Moud, Ilam, Kashmar and more) stand for high knot density, complex borders, deep and refined patterns (including medallion, Herati/floral, allover and field patterns) and the use of first-class natural materials. Discover our Persian Rugs.
Village Rugs:
Hamadan, Malayer, Ardabil, Senneh, Nahavand, Hosseinabad, Karaja and more—these rugs, originally crafted in Persian rural villages, enchant with rustic charm, durable pile, natural dyes, geometric or folk-inspired designs and a spirit of improvisation that makes each rug a unique companion. Discover our Village Rugs.
Nomadic Rugs:
Bakhtiar, Baluch, Ghashghai, Lori, Shiraz, Turkamen and many more—hand-knotted by nomadic tribes of Persia, Afghanistan and Central Asia. Expect strong symbolic motifs (animals, Tree of Life, prayer fields, garden scenes), natural colors and individual linework—each piece is an expression of freedom and authenticity. Discover our Nomadic Rugs.
Afghan Oriental Rugs:
Defining features include bold reds and indigos, geometric medallions, robust wool and everyday practicality. Sought-after types: Khal Mohammadi, Afghan Mauri, Ziegler Chobi, Kunduzi. Modern Designer Arijana and Designer Ziegler as well as Kilim Afghan represent nature-inspired contemporary reinterpretations. Discover our Afghan Oriental Rugs.
Chinese Oriental Rugs:
China produces both traditional floral and medallion patterns, impressive pictorial rugs, and some of the world’s finest knotting—up to 4,200,000 knots/m². Especially collectable: Sino Qom, Sino Hereke and Sino Nain rugs made from 100% pure natural silk. And luxurious Sino Tabriz and Sino Isfahan rugs made from fine cork wool with natural silk highlights—distinguished by artistic designs, silky lustre and the highest craftsmanship. Discover our Chinese Oriental Rugs.
Indian Oriental Rugs:
Indo Tabriz, Indo Bijar, Indo Sarouk, Indo Kashan, Indo Loribaft and more blend Indian artistry with inspirational Persian classics. They’re prized for their versatility, harmonious colors and robust wool. Modern designs and color palettes inspired by tradition offer timeless elegance—ideal for international interiors. Discover our Indian Oriental Rugs.
Caucasian Oriental Rugs:
Recognised for vivid colors—blue, red, gold—bold geometries, striking borders and expressive tribal symbolism. Iconic types: Kazak, Shirvan, Karabagh, Sumakh—the essence of Caucasian craftsmanship. Today, newly made Kazak-designs from Afghanistan and Pakistan are especially in demand. Discover our Caucasian Oriental Rugs.
Pakistani Oriental Rugs:
Highlights include delicately drawn Ziegler (often with light backgrounds), Kazak patterns, sought-after Bokhara motifs and Lahore rugs—usually hand-knotted from premium Ghazni wool for softness and vibrant natural colors. Discover our Pakistani Oriental Rugs.
Gabbeh & Loribaft Oriental Rugs:
Gabbeh & Loribaft rugs from Iran, India and Afghanistan/Pakistan feature thick piles and minimalist designs with stripes, trees and animals—often in brilliant base colors. The perfect statement for contemporary spaces with personality. Discover our Gabbeh & Loribaft Oriental Rugs.
Hereke Oriental Rugs:
Ottoman luxury at its finest: pure silk, fine wool, double-knotted, intricate medallion and tableau patterns, true rarities, sought after as collector’s items or exquisite decor pieces. Discover our Hereke Oriental Rugs.
Kashmir Silk Rugs:
Indian Kashmir silk rugs are renowned for their shimmering lustre, fine ornamentation, delicate pastel and multicolor shades. Ideal as luxurious highlights—usually with medallion, allover floral, field patterns or ‘Tree of Life’ design. Discover our Kashmir Silk Rugs.
Kilim Oriental Rugs:
Kilim rugs from Afghanistan, Persia, Turkey, India or the Caucasus are vibrantly colorful, reversible, typically featuring tribal or geometric patterns—especially popular with Boho, Ethno and vintage enthusiasts for floors and walls alike. Discover our Kilim Rugs.
Shapes, Colors & Designs
Whether rectangular, round, square, runner or oversized statement rug—there’s a size to fit every room and style. Choose from deep red, classic blue, pastel, gold, multi-color or natural hues. Explore classic medallion and field motifs, allover or pictorial (tableau) designs, and contemporary rug artistry.
Materials & Quality
- Fine sheep’s wool, pure natural silk, luxurious wool-silk blends, wool-viscose blends, art silk and more
- Natural plant dyes with timeless classic or contemporary colorways
- Hand-spun yarn, Persian, Turkish, Caucasian or mixed knots (depending on origin)
- Knot density varies by provenance—from rustic Gabbeh wool rugs to ultra-fine Qom & Hereke silk rugs
Key Oriental Rug Types at a Glance
| Provenance / Type | Features & Design | Main Pile Material | Special Features | Persian rugs (e.g. Tabriz, Isfahan, Nain) | Medallion, field, allover, tableau, floral, intricate | Sheep’s wool, cork wool, natural silk, wool-silk blend | Hand-knotted originals, Persian classics, prestige, collector’s value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silk rugs (e.g. Qom, Hereke, Kaschmir) | Floral, medallion, allover, fields, pictorial | Natural silk | Noble silky shine, delicate patterns, brilliant color depth, high knot density, hand-knotted luxury pieces |
| Village rugs (e.g. Hamadan, Ardabil) | Expressive, geometric, folkloristic | Sheep’s wool | Rustic, robust, improvisational, practical, hand-knotted |
| Nomadic rugs (e.g. Baluch, Turkamen) | Tribal, symbolic, bold colors | Sheep’s wool | Hand-knotted originality, lively character, one-of-a-kind |
| Afghan oriental rugs (e.g. Afghan, Ziegler) | Red tones, geometric, robust | Sheep’s wool, highland wool | All-purpose, strong character, hand-knotted |
| Chinese oriental rugs (e.g. Sino, Peking) | Ultra-fine medallion, allover, field, tableau, floral | Natural silk, wool-silk blends | Hand-knotted with exceptional knot density, collectible & design icons |
| Caucasian oriental rugs (e.g. Kazak, Russia) | Vivid colors, geometric tribal, borders | Sheep’s wool | Cult status, hand-crafted classics, often (semi-)antique |
| Pakistani oriental rugs (e.g. 2&3 Ply, Ziegler) | Floral, modern-classic, pastel, vintage-look, geometric | Sheep’s wool, Ghazni wool | Hand-knotted, timeless & home-friendly |
| Turkish oriental rugs (e.g. Hereke) | Finest motifs, tableau, medallions, pure silk | Natural silk | True rarities, hand-knotted luxury originals, collector’s value |
| Gabbeh & Loribaft rugs (e.g. Indo, Persian) | Simple, geometric, nature-inspired | Sheep’s wool, highland wool | Modern, cosy, original, hand-knotted |
| Kilim rugs (e.g. Afghan, Indo, Fars) | Flatweave, geometric, tribal or modern motifs | Sheep’s wool, cotton | Ideal thickness, handwoven, ethno, vintage, boho chic |
Quality, Price & Service by JUPITER Intl
- Every oriental rug is an expertly verified one-of-a-kind, chosen for workmanship, authenticity, and condition
- Transparent provenance: all handmade rugs come with a certificate of authenticity
- Fair prices directly from Khademi—no middlemen or misleading “retail prices”
- Wide selection: from exclusive Hereke silk carpets to modern Ziegler Oriental rugs
- Personal advice on provenance, size, materials and style
- Secure payment, 31-day return policy & free returns for your complete satisfaction
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Oriental Rugs
Are Persian rugs considered oriental rugs?
Yes! Persian rugs and their subtypes have always been part of the grand family of genuine oriental rugs. Every Persian rug is an oriental rug, but not every oriental rug is a Persian rug.
What determines the quality of an oriental rug?
Knot density, material quality, provenance, the use of natural dyes, and the signature of the weaver—these aspects define value, beauty and craftsmanship.
Are genuine oriental rugs durable?
Absolutely—high-quality oriental rugs are valued for their durability and everyday resilience over decades.
How do I find the perfect design?
Use our filters to search by shape, color, design or origin—or let us assist you with tailored advice.
Do oriental rugs suit modern interiors?
Absolutely—understated Ziegler rugs, Gabbeh, modern designer oriental rugs or kilims create exciting contrast with contemporary interiors, while classic patterns bring timeless elegance.
Personal Consultation at JUPITER Intl
Looking for the ideal provenance, a certain size, or a specific color and design composition? Our experienced team is happy to support you – from expert style advice to sourcing unique pieces. Contact us by phone or email, or combine your visit with a trip to our showroom in the historic Speicherstadt, part of Hamburg's UNESCO World Heritage Site – discover history and tradition up close!
More Information & Links
- Design Classic Rugs
- Countries of Origin: Iran – Persian Perfection from a Master's Hand
- Countries of Origin: China – Expression of a Rich Culture
- Countries of Origin: Afghanistan – Hand-knotted Stories
- Countries of Origin: Pakistan – A Festival of Motifs and Colours
- Countries of Origin: India – Color, Diversity and Tradition
- Countries of Origin: Caucasus – Threads Full of Memories
- Countries of Origin: Turkey – Art and Culture in Every Knot
- Carpet Guide: How Do I Properly Care for Hand-Knotted Rugs?
- Carpet Guide: What to Consider When Choosing Rug Size
- Carpet Guide: How to Identify Hand-Knotted Rugs
- Carpet Guide: How to Calculate the Knot Density of a Rug
- Carpet Guide: What’s the Difference Between Rug Knot Types?
- Carpet Guide: How Sustainable Are Hand-Knotted Rugs?
- Carpet Guide: Are Hand-Knotted Rugs a Good Investment?
- Certificate of Authenticity: Your Guarantee for Quality and Authenticity
