Antique Rugs of Western Iran: Sultanabad Rugs

Sultanabad Rugs: The town of Sultanabad, modern-day Arak, has been an important center for carpet production since the 1800s. Arak, the capital of the province Markazi, is located in western Iran on the eastern side of the Zagros Mountains, approximately 1800 meters above sea level. Sultanabad refers to not only the town, but a region that includes outlying areas engaged in village carpet weaving. Carpet production in Sultanabad has flourished and ebbed in direct relation to world historic events including wars, western influence in Asia and world demand for imported textile goods.

The common elements shared within these different styles define a regional tradition that is distinct from those in adjacent areas. Sultanabad rugs use the Persian or asymmetrical knot, generally have a cotton foundation (warp and weft) with woolen pile and use several conventions of floral motifs and colors. Knot count usually falls within the 70 to 150 knots per square inch (kpsi) range, although some are higher, at 300 kpsi or more. These carpets are made in various sizes; a large format to accommodate rooms in western houses became typical for Sultanabad carpets.