Antique Rug Design: Herati / Mahi Motif / Fish Design
If you were to picture a Middle Eastern marketplace or bazaar from hundreds of years ago, chances are one aspect of what you would most likely envision involves many fine fabrics being haggled over while many wonderful scents of incense and the like waft through the noise-filled air. Many of these fabrics and materials would, once the din of commercial transactions was complete, end up in the hands of exceptionally skilled artisans who would then quietly create rugs and carpets of stunning opulence and beauty. These masterpieces would in turn adorn the most affluent and esteemed private residences.
Example of what the fish herati mahi rug design looks like
The mahi fish herati design motif in rugs
One of the more common design motifs used in these elegant ancient rugs is the iconic fish design rugs, also called – “Herati” or “Mahi” pattern. While a few specifics may differ based on the country or region where these rugs are produced, what is generally true is that the pattern consists of an elaborately rendered diamond with a rosette inside. (The former often encapsulates decorative floral elements which resemble fish, hence the use of the Farsi term of “mahi”, which translates to “fish”.)
A herati motif medallion on a Senneh rug.
As opposed to being used exclusively as a centrally placed element / default focal point, the mahi motif is often traditionally utilized in a number of different ways: it can appear as a repetitive feature which fills in the expanse around the center of the rug, or as a border-specific motif. The attractiveness of the design was evidently not lost on the craftsmen of long ago, and so they duly made every effort to emphasize the Mahi pattern as much as possible, an approach the artisans of today have also dutifully adhered to with great effect. Above and beyond the obvious aesthetic appeal of the design, symbolism is also very much in play as the motif is thought to bring good luck to those who possess it.
The material used for weaving mahi herati fish design rugs
Some of the materials which are traditionally used in the creation of the immensely popular Mahi rug include wool, silk, and cotton, while some of the most impressive examples incorporate threads of gold. Predictably, the higher the silk and metallic content, the higher the quality and cost. (A high knot count is also indicative of exceptional quality and durability, and therefore, understandably so, a higher price as well.)
An allover pattern of herati motifs on a Persian rug.
The origin of the herati / mahi / fish design
The exact origins of the herati / mahi fish design is still somewhat unsettled. That said, it is fairly widely accepted that the Farsi-speaking region of Western Iran and the country of Turkey, represent the locations where this particular style of rug design does in fact have its most definitive roots.
Perhaps a bit of a slightly stronger case can be made for Iran given that the city of Herat (which was initially located in Persia but now resides within Afghanistan’s borders) provided obvious eponymous inspiration for the naming of the very design itself. Regardless of any quibbles concerning direct national or cultural lineage, this general area’s role in and contribution to the development and popularization of the Mahi pattern is laudable and, again, undisputed.
Antique Fish Design Rugs
The iconic herati fish design area rugs
Mahi fish design area rugs are famed for not only their aesthetic appeal but their durability (and attendant functionality) as well. In fact, the beauty of these pieces truly belies their practicality; they do not need to be seen or treated as mere show-pieces, but can actually be put to use in the home as desired. This durability and practicality, coupled with our ability to produce bespoke versions which more accurately reflect your personal style and taste, makes for a truly great investment.
Our properly sourced and high-quality herati examples will not only provide a distinct and enviable flair to your home, but also a traditional dose of good luck. Needless to say, they also make for great gifts for those who appreciate items that exhibit not only fine craftsmanship, but are also evocative of a magical past, one replete with the soothing smell of incense and noisy bustling Persian markets.
Twenty or so years ago my father gave me a beautiful antique Persian rug - after so many years (and kids and pets) it needed some TLC, so I brought it to Nazmiyal. I just picked it up today and - wow! They got the stains out entirely and the entire rug is brighter; they also made some repairs - it's back in my living room and looks fantastic, and the bill was lower than I'd expected. Overall it was a great experience - the people are wonderful, the work was perfect, and I saw so many beautiful rugs at their store that I found myself wishing for a larger apartment. Next time I need any work done on a rug, or find an open bit of floor I know where I'll be heading.
It is always a delight going to the Nazmiyal showroom. This Qashqai is one of several purchases made over the years, and mom is truly enjoying it. Jason and the staff are very knowledgeable and friendly. They listen to the customeru2019s needs. When I go to the showroom, it is like visiting my family because we have the same appreciation for the textile arts.nnOriental carpets are a rare discipline to be educated in, because you canu2019t go to a university to have certain types of training and experience, such as knowing the cultures and processes of carpet weaving. Jason has such a refined eye that he can distinguish a good rug from a great rug, and that knowledge is offered to the customer to elevate their point of view.nnComing here has been an initiation into a world of culture, art, and beauty which has sustained me, and for that I am grateful.
Loved my runner rug purchase from Nazmiyal. Love the ability to purchase, try and return if it didn't work out! I had it shipped to California and everything worked out beautifully!
NAZMIYAL is the best source for antique and vintage rugs and carpets. Staff is extremely knowledgeable, Jason himself is an amazing dealer who handpicks each and every piece in his stunning collection and is happy to educate the consumer, not just make a sale. I always trust his experience and great eye for all my spaces!
I had an absolutely wonderful experience working with Nazmiyal. I was very impressed by their selection, the quality of their beautiful carpets, and their extremely reasonable prices. Really I cannot say enough about how helpful everyone at the gallery was - especially Omri, work with him if you can! - and how happy I am with my new antique rug. Five stars, highly, highly recommended!