Types of Tabriz Rugs

Turkish Knot

• Only two types of knots are used in the carpet weaving trade: the Persian or asymmetrical knot and the Turkish or symmetrical knot. Although produced in Persia, Tabriz carpet weavers use the Turkish knot. The distinctive feature of the Turkish knot, because it is asymmetrical, is that its use will produce a flatter carpet. Experts in the carpet trade know they can identify a Tabriz rug by looking for this feature.

Rectilinear Design

• The choice of knot in Persian area rug weaving will determine the design of the carpet. The symmetrical or Turkish knot favored by weavers in Tabriz results in a rectilinear design. Rectilinear (or geometric) carpet design features lines placed at right angles to one another, but only crude curved lines. The curved lines that are typical of Persian rug design in other parts of Iran are not possible with use of the asymmetrical knot, which produces a coarser weave.

The Mahi or Fish Design

• The Mahi or fish design is one of the few traditional rug designs that are associated exclusively with Tabriz. The Mahi design features a diamond motif that repeats in a regular allover pattern throughout the carpet. An alternate version will feature a large diamond-shaped motif in the center of the carpet, which will surround a smaller version of the motif in its center. According to carpet dealer Essie Sakhai, "the mahi is now regarded as an important motif in its own right."