Isfahan

Isfahan rugs are knotted on either silk or cotton foundations, with up to 400 Persian knots per in2, using exceptionally good quality (often Kurk) wool for the pile, which is normally clipped quite low. In contemporary items the palette is normally more pastel, and technical perfection is generally of greater importance than artistic flair. Contemporary Isfahans are however extremely attractive, and the subduing of the palette, particularly the elimination of strong reds, makes them more compatible with Western decorative schemes.

A range of traditional designs are still used including allover Shah Abbas, vase, Tree of Life and pictorial schemes but by far the most popular composition is based on a circular central medallion (derived from the famous mosque of Shah Lutf Allah in Esfahan) set against an elegantly sculpted field deocrated with intricately purling vine palmette and floral motifs.

The most famous name in Isfahan rugs is that of the late Haj Agha Reza Seirafian and his seven sons Mohammad Ali, Mohammad, The Late Mohammad Sadegh, Ahmad, Ali, The Late Hossien, Mohammad Hassan. But Isfahan is more than just the Seirafians, noted masters include the great Master Faizollah Haghighi, as well as Dardahsti and the Majnoonies (Hekmat Nejad family). Emami, Shahpour Enteshari are also master weavers of note.