Question 1

What period of Persian rugs does Nazmiyal specialize in?

Accepted Answer

Nazmiyal focuses primarily on antique and early vintage Persian rugs woven before the 1920s, spanning tribal pieces from the Qashqai and Bakhtiari, village rugs from the Heriz and Serapi regions, and formal city workshop rugs from Tabriz, Kashan, Isfahan, and Kerman.

Question 2

What defines an antique Persian rug?

Accepted Answer

An antique Persian rug is identified through its weaving technique, materials, natural dyes, and wear patterns rather than age alone. Most examples in serious collections date to the late 19th or early 20th century. Authenticity is determined by structure and craftsmanship, not a fixed calendar date.

Question 3

How do I buy a Persian rug remotely from Nazmiyal?

Accepted Answer

Nazmiyal provides detailed condition reports, accurate measurements, and high-resolution photography for every piece. Specialists are available to answer questions and guide your selection whether you are in New York or anywhere in the world.

Question 4

How does condition affect the value of an antique Persian rug?

Accepted Answer

Honest wear and gentle patina are natural and desirable in antique Persian rugs — they confirm age and authenticity. What matters most is whether the underlying structure remains sound: flat and flexible pile, stable foundation, and consistent wear across the field. Heavy restoration or structural damage reduce value significantly.

Question 5

What makes Sultanabad rugs particularly durable?

Accepted Answer

Sultanabad rugs were woven using high-lanolin highland wool from sheep grazed at altitude in west-central Persia. This wool is naturally thicker and more resilient than wool from lower-altitude regions. Their large-scale open-field designs also distribute foot traffic evenly, protecting the pile over decades of use.

Question 6

Are Persian rugs a good investment?

Accepted Answer

Well-chosen antique and early vintage Persian rugs continue to show long-term demand when authenticity, structure, and design quality align. The record price for a Persian rug sold at auction stands at $34 million. Collectors should approach Persian rugs as cultural assets first, with financial appreciation as a secondary benefit.

Question 7

Are Persian rugs durable enough for everyday use?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Village and tribal rugs — Heriz, Bidjar, Bakhtiari, Qashqai — are particularly durable and suited to high-traffic areas. Finer city rugs in silk or high-knot-count wool are better suited to lower-traffic settings or display.

Question 8

Can Persian rugs be professionally restored?

Accepted Answer

Yes, when restoration is performed by specialists familiar with Persian materials and construction. Nazmiyal offers conservation-grade restoration that respects the original structure and materials of each piece.

Page 26: Persian Rugs: History, Identification & Value