Isfahan
Origins
Isfahan Persian rugs originate from the city of Isfahan in central Iran (formerly Persia). The city has a rich history of rug weaving dating back centuries, and its rugs are esteemed for their exceptional craftsmanship and intricate designs.
Design Characteristics
Intricate floral motifs
Arabesques and curvilinear patterns
Central medallions and balanced compositions
Color palettes commonly include:
Deep blues
Crimson reds
Ivory and gold tones
Soft greens
Each design is meticulously executed with fine detail and precision.
Construction & Materials
Handcrafted using fine wool, silk, and cotton
Silk highlights are used to enhance detail and luminosity
Hand-knotted using the Persian knot technique
Dense pile ensures durability and longevity
Size & Shape
Isfahan rugs are produced in a wide range of formats:
Small accent rugs
Large room-sized carpets
Rectangular, square, and round shapes
Quality & Collectability
Among the finest Persian rugs produced
Highly prized by collectors and connoisseurs worldwide
Considered valuable investment pieces due to enduring demand
Cultural Significance
Isfahan rugs embody Iran’s artistic heritage, representing centuries of knowledge passed through generations. Their designs reflect Persian history, literature, and aesthetics.
Evolution
While traditional motifs remain dominant, modern Isfahan rugs occasionally
incorporate:
Contemporary color interpretations
Refined adaptations of classical patterns
HISTORY
Isfahan, the capital of the Persian Empire during the Safavid rule, was the most prominent weaving center of its time. The Safavid rulers were among history’s greatest patrons of the arts, creating an environment where craftsmanship flourished.
Royal Patronage
Shah Tahmasp I (1524–1576)
Shah Abbas I (1588–1629)
Their support elevated Persian carpet weaving to its highest artistic level.
Today, fewer than 1,500 Safavid carpets are known to exist. Many reside in major museums across the world.
The Baron Adolphe Carl von Rothschild “Polonaise” Carpet
Property of a German nobleman – sold at Christie’s
Woven with brocaded gold and silver
Subtle palette of powder blue, indigo, sage-green, peach, and pale yellow
Silver and gold tones achieved by wrapping silver-gilt threads around silk
The Pommersfelden “Polonaise” Carpet
Sold at Christie’s
POLONAISE CARPET ONCE OWNED BY CARL VON ROTHSCHILD
SECOND REVIVAL – LIKE IT HAS NEVER BEEN TOLD BEFORE
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Persian carpet production underwent a dramatic revival. As Iran prepared to reassert its artistic excellence, Isfahan once again emerged as the heart of elite carpet weaving.
MIRZA AGHA EMAMI
Among all modern Isfahan artists, Mirza Agha Emami stands unrivaled. Despite limited recognition, his influence shaped an entire generation of designers.
Legacy
Teacher of leading artists such as Ahmed Archang
Master of extraordinary detail and composition
Designs remain unmatched in complexity
A gorgeous Isfahan carpet drawn by Emami and woven in the Shureshi workshop.
ABDUL MUTALIB ISFAHANI
AbdolMataleb Khan was a foundational figure in 19th-century Persian carpet weaving, working alongside his brother Master AbdolSamad Khan.
Family Legacy
Six sons, including:
Abdul Rahim Khan
Abdul Ghaffar Khan
Abdul Karim Khan
Abdul Razagh Khan
Abdul Khaleq Khan
Collectively known as:
“Rebel Family”
“Shoreeshi”
Their innovations reshaped Persian carpet design and influenced future masters such as Haj Mehdi Safdarzadeh Haghighi.
A beautiful antique Isfahan commissioned by Abdul Mutalib.
MASTER ABDUL SAMAD ISFAHANI
Born in 1840, Master Abdolsamad was a founding figure in modern Isfahan rug production.
Key Contributions
Reverse-engineered Persian saddlebag textiles
Established a lasting family weaving tradition
Only three signed carpets known today
One of his works is preserved at the Tehran Museum.
Additional Legacy
His daughter produced carpets known as Madar Vatan (Motherland)
Trained future masters including Haj Mehdi Safdarzadeh Haghighi
ABDUL RAHIM SHURESHI – THE MOST PROMINENT OF ABDUL MUTALIB’S SONS
Born in 1869, Abdul Rahim Shureshi revived Isfahan carpet weaving to unprecedented heights.
Recognition
Personally admired by the Shah of Iran
“Shureshi” became synonymous with best-of-type Isfahan rugs
Continuation
His son Abbas Shureshi mastered traditional dyeing
Close collaboration with Haj Agha Reza Seirafian
Legacy continues through Vahid and Hamid Shureshi
Abdul Rahim Shooreshi standing with one of his production rugs.
MASTER HAJ MEHDI KHAN SAFDARZADEH HAGHIGHI
Haj Mehdi Khan Safdarzadeh Haghighi, born in 1869, grew up in an environment steeped in faith and a deep appreciation for the arts. His early years were marked by an apprenticeship with some of the most accomplished teachers of the age, including Master Abdul Samad, Master Abdulmatallib Shureshi. By the time he turned eighteen, his exceptional grasp of design, weaving, and dyeing had already distinguished him as Master Mehdi Khan, and his reputation spread quickly throughout Isfahan.
By 1318 AH (1939 CE), he was regarded as one of the foremost figures in the Persian carpet industry. His mastery was not limited to weaving alone; he was equally celebrated for his expertise in plant-based dyeing, producing vibrant, enduring colors in both wool and silk. What began as a modest family endeavor with a few looms at home soon grew into a professional enterprise. He established a workshop on Telephone Khaneh Street in Isfahan, employing a network of skilled weavers and steadily expanding his influence.
In 1305 AH (1926 CE), responding to an invitation from the International Red Cross and the French Consul in Isfahan, he founded a weaving school in Naqsh-e Jahan Square. The initiative focused on training the Kalimi minority community in the art of carpet making. Many of those who later became successful carpet merchants on Ferdowsi Street in Tehran began their craft under his guidance at this institution.
Equally significant was his connection with Isfahan’s artistic elite. Collaborating with talents such as Mosavar al-Molk, Gholam Reza Farshchian, and the eminent miniaturist Mirza Agha Emami, he elevated carpet design to a new level of sophistication, integrating elements of miniature painting and fine art into weaving traditions.
Despite his accomplishments, Haj Mehdi Khan remained deeply humble. He never allowed his name to be woven into his carpets, preferring to let the art speak for itself. Quiet acts of generosity defined his character he regularly assisted his workshop’s craftsmen without seeking recognition. Among his enduring creations are the Afshan Emami carpet and the Daghianous carpet, both celebrated as masterpieces of their era.
Haj Mehdi Khan Safdarzadeh Haghighi passed away on (August 1, 1968 CE). He was leaving behind a legacy not only of artistry and innovation but also of humility and service to his community.
AHMED ISFAHANI (EARLY 20TH CENTURY)
Ahmed Isfahani, often identified with Agha Ahmad Ajami, was a key figure in the revival of Isfahan carpet weaving in the early 20th century.
At a time when the city's weaving traditions were recovering from decline, he founded what became known as the “Ahmad school,” producing carpets that set both technical and aesthetic benchmarks.
Many antique carpets are signed “Ahmad Isfahan” or “Ahmad Ajami,” a testament to his workshop’s influence and enduring recognition in domestic and international markets.
His carpets are distinguished by tight knot density, cotton foundations, dry wool piles, and vibrant yet darker-hued dyes, creating depth and longevity in the finished pieces. Ahmed Isfahani drew inspiration from classical Persian motifs, incorporating central medallions, Shah Abbasi palmettes, Islimi arabesques, and Tree of Life compositions. These designs exemplify a seamless blend of tradition and innovation, positioning his workshop as a precursor to later masterful Isfahan weaving schools such as Seirafian.
GHOLAMALI SAFARZADEH HAGHIGHI (1918–2005)
Gholamali, the son of Haj Mehdi, took over the family workshop at the age of 19. Under his leadership, the workshop became a prominent center for carpet weaving in Isfahan, attracting both local artisans and international visitors. He played a crucial role in preserving and promoting the family’s legacy in the art of carpet weaving.
MASTER FEYZOLLAH SAFARZADEH HAGHIGHI (1942–2022)
Feyzollah, son of Master Mehdi Khan, was a distinguished artist known for his expertise in both carpet weaving and miniature painting. He studied at the Isfahan School of Fine Arts under masters like Rostam Shirazian and Bahadori. His notable works include the Silk Road Carpet, the world’s largest pictorial narrative carpet, and several masterpieces depicting scenes from Islamic history, such as “The Celestial Court of Imam Reza” and “The Prayer Hall of Masjid Mosque.” His contributions have been recognized internationally, with his works displayed in museums and exhibitions worldwide.
YADOLLAH SAFARZADEH HAGHIGHI (1927–2012)
Yadollah, another son of Haj Mehdi, was renowned for his mystical and literary-themed compositions.
HAJ AGHA REZA SEIRAFIAN
Haj Agha Reza Seirafian began weaving in 1939 after leaving banking.
Production Philosophy
Best-of-type carpets only
Finest designers and weavers
Exceptional natural dyes, wool, and silk
Family
Survived by seven sons
Most prominent: Haj Mohammad Seirafian
Haj Agha Reza Seirafian with his seven sons.
HAJ MOHAMMAD SEIRAFIAN
Grand Master Mohammad Seirafian is widely regarded as the greatest Persian carpet producer of the 20th century.
Masterpiece
Over 1,350 knots per square inch
Took a decade to complete
Donated to the United Nations
Legacy
Symbol of peace and unity
Displayed at UN Headquarters, New York
A masterpiece by Haj Mohammad Seirafian donated to the UN.
HAJ SADIQ SEIRAFIAN
The late Master Sadegh Seirafian (1922–2005) became a master producer shortly after high school.
Distinctions
Talented designer and sketch developer
Used a unique English inscription bearing his full name
Largest producer of his generation
Sadegh Seirafian masterpiece
AHMED SEIRAFIAN
Ahmed Seirafian maintained the highest Seirafian standards.
Characteristics
Extremely high knot densities
Silk foundations
Luminous highlights
Quality over volume
A beautiful scenery by Ahmed Seirafian
MOHAMMAD ALI SEIRAFIAN
Mohammad-Ali, the eldest brother, began weaving in the early 1940s.
Notable Traits
Fine knot densities
Exceptional precision
Limited production
A beautiful zoomorphic carpet by Mohammad Ali.
AKBAR MAHDAEI
Distinguished Isfahan Artist and Designer
Akbar Mahdaei was a major figure in Isfahan’s modern artistic landscape.
Contributions
Persian miniature painting
Carpet design
Bridged classical aesthetics with modern sensibilities
A beautiful depiction of Omar Al-Khayyam by Akbar Mahdaei.
AHMAD SHAHAPOUR (ACTIVE TODAY)
Ahmad Shahapour is a living legend among contemporary Isfahan carpet artists.
Key Details
Specialty: Limited editions with silk foundations
Knot Density: 800+ knots per square inch
Signature Series: Shahapoor Paradise
Materials: Silk and wool with natural dyes
Ahmed Shahapour carpet exemplary of his production
DR. HASSAN HEKMAT-NEJAD MAJNUNI & FAMILY
Dr. Hekmat-Nejad produced some of the highest knot-density carpets ever woven.
Distinctions
Exceeding one million knots per square meter
Commissioned by the Pahlavi government
Used as diplomatic gifts
An amazing Hekmat Nejad carpet.
MIRZA HASHEM KORD-AZAD (WORKSHOP)Distinctions
A key figure in preserving Shah-Abbasi traditions during the late 19th-century revival.
Workshop Focus
Traditional knotting
Natural dyes
Classical Safavid motifs
A Khord Azad carpet that is best of type
SARRAF MAMOURY
A prominent mid-20th-century Isfahan workshop.
Characteristics
High knot density
Symmetry and precision
Refined wool and silk usage
Astounding navy blue Sarraf Mamoury carpet
MAHMOUD AKBAROFF
Mahmoud Akbaroff operates a high-end Isfahan workshop dedicated to classical Persian carpets.
Hallmarks
Entirely hand-knotted
High knot density
Signed “Akbaroff Isfahan”
Limited production
DARDASHTI
Founded in 1921, the Dardashti workshop is a pillar of Isfahan carpet heritage.
Signature Traits
Silk warps
Natural dyes
Medallion and Shah-Abbasi motifs
Woven signature: “Isfahan 110 Dardashti”
An exquisite Dardashti carpet with boteh design