tabriz
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Geographical Area
Tabriz is the central city of East Azerbaijan Province, with an approximate area of 237.45 square kilometers. It is considered one of the five major cities in Iran in terms of population and is among the most active and important economic centers in the country.
The Etymology of Tabriz
According to some beliefs, the name Tabriz is derived from two components: "Tap" (hill, high) and "Riz" (spring), meaning "the spring at the hill." This is because the city of Tabriz is situated beneath the hill of Ainali, and in the northern part of Tabriz, there is a neighborhood called "Silab," indicating that Tabriz is located along the path of water flowing from the top of the hill to the bottom.
Armenian historians who lived in the 14th century wrote that Khosrow Arshak, the Armenian ruler, built Tabriz as a retaliation against Ardeshir Babakan, the first Sassanian king (the slayer of Ardavan, the last Parthian king). They named the place "Da-e-Vorz" or "Toranj," meaning "this is for revenge," which eventually transformed into Tabriz over time.
Others believe that the name may be derived from the existence of warm springs in the region. The term "To" means fever or warmth, and "Ri" means spring or flowing water. Therefore, "Tori" could mean a warm spring.
In any case, the history of Tabriz predates Islam, and the city has experienced a fluctuating destiny throughout history. According to some accounts, Tabriz served as the residence of the Ashkanians and Armenians during the Sassanian period.
One of the most significant events in the history of Azerbaijan occurred in the 11th century (approximately 5-6 AH), when the Seljuk Turks prevailed over Iran, choosing Azerbaijan and Hamadan as their abode.
In a short period, Turkish replaced Persian and Arabic in this region, and Tabriz became a Turkish-speaking region, which has persisted to this day with some modifications.
Historical and Artistic Background of Tabriz
The first period is associated with the Ilkhanate era, which took shape after the Mongol invasion in the 11th century AD (7th century AH). Given the city's status as the capital, Tabriz became a cultural hub.
With the arrival of artists in Tabriz during this period, valuable and significant works emerged, such as world-opening illustrations by Jovayni, and the "Manafi al-Hayawan," an illustrated manuscript of the Shahnameh by Demotte.
In the second period, during the Safavid dynasty, Tabriz was chosen as the political center. Kamal al-Din Behzad migrated to Tabriz, attracting many disciples. Numerous artists, including Sultan Mohammad, Mohammad Agha Mirak, Muzaffar Ali, and Sheikh Zadeh, were trained by him.
Behzad created masterpieces like illustrated manuscripts and calligraphy, including the Khamsa and Shirin, and the Divan of Mir Ali Shir Nava'i. The establishment of royal workshops and the creation of unique artistic works were characteristic features of this period.
In the Qajar period, concurrently with the activities of the Fine Arts Administration in Tehran, a similar institution, the School of Applied Arts, was established in Tabriz.
Notable artists such as Mirmasur, Rasam Arjangi, and Abdullah Baqeri played a significant role in creating and expanding the art of painting.
Tabriz has a long history in carpet weaving, attracting artists and merchants from both Iran and abroad. It has been a center for Oriental carpets trade since the time of Hulagu Khan, and possibly contemporaneously with Herat, it served as a pivotal location for the evolution of carpet weaving into a fine art. The tradition of carpet weaving in Tabriz dates back to the 11th century AD.
Tabriz carpets take us back to the valuable carpets of the Safavid era. While the direct attribution of carpets such as Sheikh Safi or recognized historical carpets to this city is uncertain, Tabriz has been known for its royal libraries, calligraphers, painters, and illuminators. During the Safavid era, Tabriz undoubtedly had centralized carpet weaving workshops.
History of Carpet Weaving in Tabriz
The history of carpet weaving in Tabriz can be traced back to the Safavid era, with a documented and workshop-based approach. Carpets from Tabriz that have reached us after the Safavid period are highly praised, particularly those produced in Tabriz in the late Qajar era.
One of the earliest carpet designers in Tabriz, who recorded his name in his works, is Mirmasur, Rasam Arjangi, and Abdullah Baqeri. They were also members of the Vocational Arts School and successfully trained famous apprentices such as Emad and Khiabani.
Mir Masur had a design workshop and provided education in carpet design and weaving. One of his most famous carpet designs is called "Chahar Fasl" (Four Seasons).
Notable masterpieces by Mir Masur include a rare carpet displayed in the Nader Shah Great Commander's Mausoleum Museum and the Shahpour carpet.
This approach has continued to the present day, with students following in the footsteps of their masters and creating innovative designs.
Among other Tabriz carpet designers, noteworthy figures include Haj Jalili, Abdullah Baqeri, Ahmad Emad, Mohammad Taqi Khiabani, Amin Afshar, Abbasali A'labbaf, Akbar Bergi, Mohammad Hussein Najafzadeh, Gharibaghi, Heidarzadeh, Nazami Dost, Sadeghiani, Faraji, Arabzadeh, Eskandani, Gholi Nami, Jafar Pakdast, Rezaii, Khatibi, Behesti Shirfar, and many more.
Color and Dyeing in Tabriz Carpets
The establishment of carpet weaving workshops began in the city of Tabriz, and some of the important Tabriz carpet workshops also had their own small dyeing workshops nearby. These dyeing workshops were responsible for coloring the wool yarns themselves (Edwards, 1973, p. 73).
Tabriz was the only carpet-weaving center where Western dyes had a significant impact, replacing the traditional colors. Before World War I, a German carpet-importing company had selected Tabriz as its commercial hub.
For the first time, the people of this city became acquainted with Western dye materials. Although the mentioned company later closed in Iran, Iranian dyers, who had received training in using European colors, established their workshops and began using German colors like Ciba and later Swiss colors in carpet weaving, a practice that continues to this day (Edwards, 1973, p. 72).
Currently, the majority of colors used in chemically produced carpets are warm and bright, such as beige, cinnamon, golden cream, brown, earthy tones, various shades of blue and navy, moss green, olive, copper, and onion skin.
Additionally, unconventional and new colors like various shades of aqua and purple, mauve, and others are now being used in carpet production.
Design and Patterns of Tabriz Carpets
The prevalent designs in current Tabriz carpets are well-known by the names of their designers. For example, they mention contemporary designs by Far, Khatibi, Salari, Aliya, Taqizadeh, Ghalamnami, Qalam Shirfar, Qalam Shahsavari, and more.
According to conducted surveys, most of the traditional and authentic Iranian designs in Tabriz are imitated and inspired, and they are more fully reflected in Tabriz carpets. (Edward Cecil Edwards refers to Tabriz weavers as great imitators in his book "Persian Carpets.")
Edward Cecil Edwards believed that Tabriz designers were skilled in modifying and adapting patterns. However, unlike Kerman designers who created new and aesthetically pleasing patterns, Tabriz designers did not possess the creativity to develop innovative designs.
Instead, they adopted patterns that they found appealing and marketable. However, at present, there is creativity in designing patterns, utilizing unlmited colors boldly and courageously.
Types of Tabriz Handwoven Carpets:
When buying Tabriz carpets, you will come across various types and designs of handwoven carpets, which usually make buying and choosing difficult for individuals. Below, we will mention the types of Tabriz handwoven carpets:
- Mahi (Fish) Handwoven Carpets
- Salar Handwoven Carpets
- Nami Handwoven Carpets
- Aliya Handwoven Carpets
- Gonbad Handwoven Carpets
- Khatibi Handwoven Carpets
- Golestan Handwoven Carpets
- Gol Abresm Handwoven Carpets
Texture and Size of Tabriz Carpets:
The common knot counts in Tabriz carpets, known as "Riz" (a term for fine carpets in Tabriz), are currently 18, 20, 25, 40, 50, 60, 70, and occasionally 80 and 90 knots per square inch.
The weaving style and knots are symmetrical Turkish knots with a double weft. Since koochi wood is not used, the shearing process in Tabriz is done separately after completing the weaving, and the shears are twisted at the end of the carpet
In urban weaving areas, carpets with a knot count of 50 or higher use a silk warp and a mixed pile of wool and silk flowers. In the past, a silk thread called "French thread" was imported into the country, and carpet weavers used this type of thread for 50-knot carpets.
Due to its high cost, they now use cotton-polyester threads that may cause pilling in the vicinity of the carpet's heat. In recent years, the weaving of silk warp floor carpets has also become common in Tabriz, with brands such as Salarie, Khatibi, and Novin Far active in this area.
Tabriz carpets are woven in almost all dimensions, especially in half, six, nine, twelve, eighteen, and twenty-four square meters, as well as various sizes for runners, small rugs, and curtains (4 meters). In recent productions, the sizes of square and quarter square carpets and border rugs are relatively limited.
Another common dimension in Tabriz is the weaving of various circular and oval carpets. The prevalence of circular carpet weaving in this region is very high.
Manufacturing in the city of Marand:
The production in the city of Marand is mostly in a knot count of 50, and its designs are inspired by Tabriz. Marand's weavings mostly consist of several motifs, particularly single-weft carpets, a type of carpet weaving that closely resembles the Kashan style, known for its good durability.
The designs of Maragheh carpets, especially Zara and half-silk rugs, are inspired by the patterns of all-silk Qom rugs. Additionally, they produce 6-meter and 9-meter carpets. The carpets of the eastern part of East Azerbaijan, Heris, and Bakhshaish have broken geometric patterns. In the Heris region, except for the Roseta-ye Bilvard, most of the styles are Turkish, and the patterns are mostly broken latch-hook designs.
These designs imitate the rotating patterns that the weaver implements during the weaving process. Heris and Bakhshaish carpets are globally renowned due to the use of plant-based dyes and high-quality wool. In the city of Sarab, fish designs are predominantly used, and their sizes vary, with smaller pieces and larger ones being more common.
Renowned Carpet Designers in Tabriz:
Ahmad Imad:
His fame and credibility are mainly attributed to the production of valuable artistic carpets, some of which are displayed in Sa'dabad Palaces or the Carpet Museum.
Imad was directly involved in designing some of the carpets produced in his own workshop. A humble and relatively unknown artist, he was born in Tabriz in the year 1287 (Solar Hijri calendar) and passed away in 1381. Imad initiated his career by weaving small carpets at home.
Later, he engaged in the art of engraving and miniature painting at the School of Decorative Arts. The designs of Mir-Mosavar served as suitable patterns for him to gain experience.
During Taherzadeh Bahzad's tenure, he was invited to Tehran to weave carpets for the Marble Palace. His style is characterized by the simplicity of design, the use of subtle colors, and fine weaving.
Habibollah Amin Afshar:
Born in 1282 (Hijri Shamsi) in Urmia, he was another artist who contributed to the carpets produced in the Marble Palace in Tabriz. Amin Afshar was proficient in traditional weaving and brought patterns to life on carpet designs using his innovative skills.
His distinctive feature was the use of ancient motifs and patterns. He incorporated mythical creatures like the Simurgh, griffin, and winged horse, as well as Slimi bands that end with animal heads (such as the talking tree).
Mirza Taghi Khiabani, Known as Mohammad Taghi Khiabani:
Mohammad Taghi Khiabani, also famous as Mirza Taghi Khiabani, was the superintendent of industrial arts during Marmasoor's era and his best disciple in the fields of engraving and illustration. He completed a course in anatomy as well.
Khiabani learned coloration with natural and traditional colors, as well as carpet weaving, at Mr. Zanjanchi's factory, a renowned producer of Tabriz carpets.
His style is rooted in traditional Persian designs, particularly influenced by the Safavid style. His son, Gholamhossein Khiabani, born in 1320 (Hijri Shamsi) in Tabriz, is currently one of the prominent carpet designers in Tabriz, inheriting his father's artistic talents.
The artist's penmanship is exquisite and broad, showcasing the influence of European art. Mohammad Taghi Khiabani's (father) designs feature traditional motifs such as Islimis and Khatais, complemented by the bold use of red flowers alongside various shades of green and warm colors like different shades of red, pinks, and oranges, along with purples, magentas, and yellows.
On the other hand, Gholamhossein Khiabani's designs lean towards Western patterns and flowers. Decorative motifs and leafy patterns reminiscent of the Qajar era, along with satin and David stars and red flowers, characterize his designs.
Abbasali Aalabaf:
Abbasali Aalabaf was born in 1298 (Hijri Shamsi) in Tabriz. He is best known as a Tabriz carpet producer. Starting in 1310, he engaged in designing, mapping, coloring, dyeing, and weaving carpets. He consistently aimed to create diverse and innovative works while adhering to traditional and authentic styles. His father, Haj Hasan Aalabaf, was a prominent merchant and carpet producer who collaborated with the Sharq Company.
One of his renowned carpets is "Fazavat-e-Solomon," featuring a design inspired by Mir-Masroor. Aalabaf drew significant inspiration from Mir-Masroor's works. The use of the primary green spectrum and purplish-magenta hues are distinctive features of his creations.
Haj Jalili:
Haj Jalili was the most renowned handwoven carpet producer in Tabriz during the late Qajar period. He was active from the early 1880s until the end of that century. In his workshop, creative designers, master colorists, and skilled weavers worked under his supervision to create exceptionally beautiful pieces.
The carpets produced by Haj Jalili are distinguished by unique designs and high-quality weaving, earning them a special place in the antique carpet market, both in his time and today.
Haj Jalili Carpets:
Most of Haj Jalili's carpets feature a distinctive ground color that leans towards an aged orange (reddish-brown or coffee-colored). Additionally, one can find bone, blue, brown, green, gray, and golden hues in Haj Jalili's carpets.
The designs of these carpets include "Lachak-o-Toranj" (small floral medallions), Shah Abbasi, tree motifs, "Boteh" (paisley), Islimi (arabesque), Mahi Darham (fish in a diamond), and tree patterns, all set against a plain background. The Shah Abbasi and Lachak-o-Toranj patterns on a plain background are the most prominent characteristics of Haj Jalili's carpets. The Mihrabi design in Haj Jalili's carpets was predominantly woven as small rugs and half-sized carpets.
Haj Jalili Carpets:
Haj Jalili carpets were woven both in large rug sizes and smaller dimensions, showcasing exceptional quality. Starting from the 1940s, Haj Jalili carpets gained significant attention in Europe and America. Many interior decorators favored these carpets due to their unique color schemes. Nowadays, some of these Tabriz carpets by Haj Jalili reach high prices at Christie's and Sotheby's auctions.
Factors to Consider When Buying Silk Tabriz Carpets:
When buying silk Tabriz carpets, it is important to purchase from a reputable center. Then you should consider factors such as carpet size, design and pattern, Heriz carpet price, color scheme, etc.
The purchased carpet should coordinate with the decoration of your home; otherwise, the beauty of the Heriz Tabriz carpet will not be visible, and the environment of the house will appear contradictory.
The price of handwoven Tabriz carpets depends on the knot density (number of knots per square meter) and the dimensions of the carpet. The higher the knot density, the higher the price of Tabriz carpets. Knot density means that 50 or 60 silk or wool knots are tied on the warp in every seven centimeters.
The materials and fibers used also greatly influence the price of Tabriz handwoven carpets. Also, the design and color of Tabriz carpets affect their price.
Chic and beautiful Tabriz carpet designs are unique, and the natural and organic dyeing of handwoven carpets has made Tabriz carpets the best and most durable in terms of color and quality.
Factors Affecting the Price of Second-Hand Tabriz Handwoven Carpets:
In the previous section, we mentioned that the longer the Tabriz carpet is used and the older it gets, the more valuable it becomes. In other words, if you are looking for a cheap handwoven carpet, you should choose new models.
The price of second-hand handwoven Tabriz carpets is usually higher than new carpets because Tabriz carpets have a much higher quality compared to machine-made carpets, and they are also exceptionally beautiful.
Tabriz carpets are considered luxury and rare items, which makes even the price of second-hand carpets high.
Second-hand Tabriz carpets are considered antique carpets, which also raises their price. For this reason, many people buy second-hand Tabriz carpets for investment purposes.
The Most Expensive Tabriz Handwoven Carpet:
After gaining a complete understanding of Tabriz carpets and their prices, let's delve into the most expensive Tabriz handwoven carpet, which also has worldwide fame. The Rothschild Medallion Tabriz carpet, looted by a German soldier during World War II, is one of the most expensive and antique carpets in the world.
The handwoven nature and possessing attractive and famous designs have made this carpet famous and highly priced. The most expensive Tabriz handwoven carpet, named the Rothschild Medallion, stolen by a German soldier, is sold for $71,000.
Advantages of Buying Tabriz Carpets:
Some people, for whatever reason, start to degrade traditional products and Tabriz Heriz carpets. While Tabriz carpets have a history of about 2500 years and have attracted the attention of many throughout all these years.
The popularity of Tabriz carpets is not limited to Iran alone, and Heriz carpets and Tabriz silk carpets have many fans worldwide. In this section, we will mention some of the most important advantages of buying Tabriz carpets for you. So if you are also a buyer of handwoven carpets, read this section carefully:
- One of the most important advantages of Tabriz carpets and modern carpets is the use of fibers for weaving Heriz Tabriz carpets and Tabriz silk carpets. In Tabriz handwoven carpets and other types of handwoven carpets, unlike machine-made carpets, natural fibers are used, which will be very beneficial for the health of humans.
- You should know that the high diversity in the pattern and color of Tabriz carpets brings peace of mind and soul to individuals. You can choose one of the various models of Heriz carpets or modern handwoven carpets according to your taste.
- As a buyer of handwoven carpets, it is better to know that over time and with foot traffic, the value of Tabriz carpets increases.
- Washing Tabriz Heriz carpets will make them even softer, so never believe any opposing claims.
- Materials such as cotton, wool, and silk are used in the production of Tabriz carpets, and one of the best types is Tabriz silk carpets. With these definitions, as a buyer of handwoven carpets, you will never see static electricity in various models of Tabriz carpets.
- By buying Tabriz carpets, you help designers and manufacturers of handwoven Tabriz carpets.
- The lifespan of Tabriz carpets is several times longer than that of machine-made carpets.
- Over time, these Tabriz carpets increase in value, and therefore, they are considered an investment. Second-hand machine-made carpets have less value compared to their new ones, but the price of second-hand handwoven Tabriz carpets is higher than that of new ones.
Online Purchase of Tabriz Handwoven Carpets from rugeast Store:
As mentioned, purchasing from a reputable store like rugeast allows you to buy an authentic product. Additionally, the website www.rugeast.com.com sells handwoven carpets online, and by visiting it, you can order your desired model.
Summary of Tabriz Carpets Features:
- Utilization of patterns from various regions.
- Integration of diverse designs and patterns.
- Implementation of Turkish symmetrical knots.
- Presence of dual wefts.
- Woven using the Persian knot technique.
- Round and oval weaving.
- The back is not complicated, and after weaving and carpet washing, it is intricately folded by Tabriz carpet experts.