Sarouq persan – 5'5″ x 3'7″

Sarouk, a village in Markazi Province, has long been celebrated for its Persian rug weaving tradition. Over the centuries, these rugs have become synonymous with quality, artistry, and durability, particularly among collectors and enthusiasts in the West.

One of the defining characteristics of Sarouk rugs is their intricate floral designs, often arranged in a rich, symmetrical pattern across the entire field rather than centering around a medallion. The motifs—delicate vines, blossoms, and elegant scrolling patterns—are woven with remarkable precision, creating a sense of depth and movement. The color palette is equally distinctive, with deep reds, navy blues, ivory, and beige coming together to enhance the elegance of the design. In the early 20th century, many Sarouk rugs destined for the American market were redyed upon arrival to achieve a more vibrant raspberry-red tone, a practice that contributed to their widespread popularity.

Beyond their beauty, Sarouk rugs are admired for their craftsmanship and resilience. They are densely knotted, often boasting between 200,000 and 350,000 knots per square meter, making them exceptionally strong and well-suited for high-traffic areas. Their pile is made from high-quality wool, giving them a soft yet durable texture, while their cotton foundation ensures structural integrity. The Persian (Senneh) knot technique used in their weaving allows for finely detailed patterns and an impressive longevity that allows these rugs to maintain their shape and vibrancy over generations.

Sarouk’s reputation as a major rug-producing center solidified in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when Persian carpets gained immense popularity in Europe and the United States. Merchants from Tabriz and Sultanabad set up workshops in the area to refine the craft, creating designs tailored to Western tastes while preserving the tradition and artistry of Persian weaving. Even today, Sarouk rugs remain a symbol of timeless craftsmanship, appreciated not only for their visual appeal but also for the heritage and skill woven into every thread.