Persian Shiraz Rug Value Guide

This mid-century Persian Shiraz rug is a quintessential example of tribal weaving from Iran's Fars province, crafted by Qashqai nomads or local villagers. Its vibrant madder red field and geometric diamond motifs represent a storied pastoral tradition, making it a highly sought-after piece for collectors of authentic nomadic art.

What affects the value of Persian Shiraz Rug?

• The condition of the hand-knotted wool pile, with minimal wear significantly maintaining the $250-$275 price point.
• The intricacy and clarity of the tribal symbolism, including the diamond medallions and stylized floral or animal elements.
• The vibrancy and preservation of the natural dyes, particularly the signature madder red field.
• The structural integrity of the wool foundation and the presence of original fringe or finished edges.

How to Identify Persian Shiraz Rug?

• Look for the characteristic central diamond medallion and stylized geometric motifs like birds or plants typical of Fars province weaving.
• Examine the foundation; these authentic tribal pieces are typically woven on wool foundations rather than the cotton used in city rugs.
• Check for the hand-knotted texture and slight irregularities in the geometric poles that indicate genuine nomadic craftsmanship from the 1950-1970 era.
• Verify the use of traditional madder red dye which provides the deep, earthy base color characteristic of the Shiraz region.

History of Persian Shiraz Rug

Shiraz rugs are hand-knotted by the Qashqai nomads and settled villagers in the Fars province of southwestern Iran. They are renowned for their geometric designs and tribal symbolism, often featuring poles, diamonds, and stylized birds or plants. These rugs are typically woven on wool foundations, reflecting the pastoral lifestyle of the weavers in the region surrounding the historic city of Shiraz.