From the earliest time to the present the Persian has excelled all others in the designing of flowers and in color decoration, therefore the Persian textiles have always shown complex floral designs and harmonious arrangement of colors. Unlike the Turkish fabrics, they almost invariably have a full straight fringe at each end which is composed of loose warp threads.

In Persia both the Senna and the Ghiordes knots are used, and the latter has been adopted in some localities where the former alone was once in vogue.

The weavers of Persia are usually composed of women and children of both sexes. The latter, however, do not take up the work at nearly so early an age as they do in Asia Minor. In Persia they seldom begin earlier than ten years of age, while in Asia Minor thousands of little children from four to six years of age may be seen working at the loom. The usual pay in Persia is fifteen tomans ($0.91) a year for the first two years of their apprenticeship. This amounts to about $13.65 of our money. After the expiration of two years they are paid at the rate of one toman for every 30,000 stitches.

The Persian government has endeavored to uphold the quality of its rugs in the face of demoralizing influences, but alas, Persia too is getting the commercial spirit and aniline dyes are being smuggled into and secretly used all over the country.

One correspondent in Teheran says, "Good rugs are hard to get and are very expensive. There are quantities of the commercial variety, but those can be bought in London as cheap as in Persia." During the recent revolution quite a number of the palaces were sold out by their owners at auction. At these sales the good rugs were quickly picked up at fabulous prices by European residents in Teheran.

There are no rug factories in Persia, but there are several establishments owned by foreigners, especially at Sultanabad and Tabriz, where the wool is dyed and given out to the weavers to take home and weave according to the designs and specifications furnished.

PERSIAN RUG PROVINCES

The following is a short description of the various Persian provinces from which rugs come:

Azerbijan is the most northeastern province of Persia. It includes a part of Ancient Armenia and its present population consists mostly of Turks, with some Armenians and Kurds. Tabriz is the capital. Its present output of rugs is very large.

Ardelan is the province just south of Azerbijan. Its inhabitants are mostly Kurds and its capital is Kermanshah.

Irak Ajemi is the largest province of Persia. It practically occupies the centre of the country. Its principal city is Teheran, which is the present capital of Persia. Irak Ajemi has a larger output of rugs than any other province of Persia.

Farsistan or Fars, as it is sometimes called, lies in the southern part of Persia west of Kirman and south of Irak Ajemi. Shiraz is its capital and it produces a wool which is not excelled, if equalled, by that of any other country in the world.

Khorasan is Persia's most southeastern province and, next to Irak Ajemi, its largest one. It is sometimes called "The Land of the Sun," and is inhabited by Arabs, Turkomans, Kurds, Afghans, Baluches, and Jews. The western portion is a desert. Meshed is the capital. It is one of the last of the Persian provinces to be affected by outside influences.

Kirman is the most southerly province of Persia and the least known. Being so difficult of access, it is seldom visited by the traveller; consequently its products are free from outside influence. It has for its capital the city of the same name.

A complete description of each rug of the Persian class is given in the following pages.

HEREZ

A name applied to all carpets made in the mountainous district of Herez and to some from Tabriz and Sultanabad. The different products of this class are so similar in many respects that it is often difficult and sometimes impossible for the expert to differentiate. There is a great prevalence of Mongolian influence in their designs. Until quite recently the Herez district was one of the few districts from which the modern rugs were a decided improvement on the antique, but they have deteriorated considerably of late. They are marketed at Tabriz.

THE EXAMPLE ILLUSTRATED

In exception to most of the Herez weaves this piece has no medallion centre with corner pieces to match, but the style of the floral motifs which fill the field is somewhat characteristic of the region in Northern Persia where it is made. The Herez products are extremely serviceable.

BAKHSHIS

Why So Named.—After the village by that name in the Herez district where they are made.

Knot.—Usually the Senna, sometimes the Ghiordes. Number vertically six to fifteen; number horizontally five to twelve; number to the square inch thirty to one hundred eighty.

Warp.—Always cotton.

Woof.—Always cotton, sometimes dyed brown.

Nap.—Usually a good quality of wool, trimmed short, but rarely lustrous.

Sides.—Nearly always overcast with different colored yarns. Occasionally finished flat.

Ends.—Short fringe with loose warp threads at each end; occasionally they are knotted.

Border.—Usually consists of two narrow and one wide central stripe. The latter frequently carries the Herati design.

Prevailing Colors.—Different shades of red, blue, and green. Also ivory, white, brown, old rose, and sometimes yellow.

Dyes.—As a rule are good. Aniline dyes are found in many of the very new pieces.

Designs.—Usually the medallion centre with or without corners to match. Characteristic angular ornamentation. Shah Abbas, Herati, and Sardar designs frequently used.

Cost.[A]—From $1.00 to $2.50 a square foot.

Sizes.—Six to ten by ten to twenty-six feet. Seldom in small sizes.

Remarks.—Rather rare compared with the rest of the Herez products. Among the most desirable of the large carpets. Until very recently they have been perfectly free from outside influences.

GOREVAN

Synonyms.—Goerivan, Ghorevan.

Why So Named.—After a small village in the Herez district.

Where Made.—Throughout the Herez district.

Knot.—Usually the Senna, occasionally the Ghiordes. Number vertically from eight to fifteen; number horizontally from six to twelve; number to the square inch forty-eight to one hundred eighty.

Warp.—Always cotton.

Woof.—Always cotton, sometimes dyed brown.

Nap.—A rather coarse wool, clipped short.

Sides.—Usually overcast, as a rule with different colored wool, seldom selvaged.

Ends.—Always a short fringe with loose warp threads at each end. Occasionally they are knotted.

Border.—From three to five border stripes, generally three, one wide central stripe with a narrow one on each side. The central stripe frequently carries the Herati design.

Prevailing Colors.—Blue, red, and green in all their shades; brown, old ivory, terra cotta, and occasionally yellow.

Dyes.—Of the best excepting in some of the new pieces.

Designs.—Similar to those of the Bakhshis. A shaded background is a characteristic feature.

Cost.—From $1.25 to $3.50 a square foot.

Sizes.—Six to ten by ten to twenty-six. Seldom smaller than carpet sizes.

Remarks.—Excellent carpets to wear.

THE EXAMPLE ILLUSTRATED

Like most rugs of its class its field presents a medallion with corners to match, all of which is covered with rectilineal flowers and vines. Like most of the Herez products its main border carries the tortoise design.

SERAPI

Synonyms.—Serab, Serabi, Sirab.

Why So Named.—After the village of Serab in the Herez district.

Where Made.—Sometimes in the Herez district, sometimes on the looms of Tabriz and sometimes on those of Sultanabad.

Knot.—Usually the Senna, occasionally the Ghiordes. The finest ones are tied with the Senna knot. Number vertically ten to eighteen; number horizontally eight to twelve; making from eighty to two hundred sixteen to the square inch.

Warp.—Always cotton.

Woof.—Always cotton, sometimes dyed.

Nap.—Rather coarse but durable wool, which is generally clipped short.

Sides.—Nearly always overcast, seldom selvaged.

Ends.—Short fringe and loose warp threads at each end. Occasionally knotted.

Border.—Similar to that of the Bakhshis and Gorevan. From three to five border stripes, most usually three.

Prevailing Colors.—Similar to those of the Bakhshis and Gorevan but, as a rule, somewhat brighter.

Dyes.—Usually excellent.

Designs.—Similar to those of the Gorevan, but there are usually more floral elements added to the ground. Frequent inscriptions.

Sizes.—Eight to fifteen by ten to twenty-five. Very few runners and seldom smaller than carpet sizes.

Prices.—$1.50 to $4.00 per square foot.

Remarks.—The best grade of the Herez products. Usually of a finer weave and with more detail in design than the Gorevan.

THE EXAMPLE ILLUSTRATED

It is rather difficult to distinguish between the Serapi and the Gorevan. The principal difference is one of quality, although the former usually has more detail in design and usually more floral elements added to the ground.

This carpet presents a peculiar medallion with four pear-shaped offshoots upon a light ground which is strewn with many rectilineal flowers and leaves. Like nearly all of the Herez products it has three border stripes, one wide one with a narrow one on each side. The former carries the tortoise border design with an arrangement similar to the Herati border design and the latter small flowers in profile alternating with buds.

KARA DAGH

Why So Named.—The words "Kara Dagh" mean Black Mountains, the name of a range in the northern part of the Azerbijan province, where they are woven by shepherd tribes of the most bigoted Shiah sect.

Knot.—Ghiordes. Number vertically eight to fourteen; number horizontally eight to eleven; number to square inch sixty-four to one hundred fifty-four.

Warp.—Wool.

Woof.—Natural brown or dyed wool. Usually extra woof threads.

Nap.—Wool of medium length, sometimes camels' hair.

Sides.—Usually selvaged, occasionally overcast.

Ends.—One end selvaged and turned back, the other selvaged and finished with a fringe of loose warp threads. The selvage is usually dyed red.

Border.—Usually from three to six border stripes of more or less floral character.

Prevailing Colors.—Similar to those of the Karabagh, but more diversified. The ground contains considerable natural-colored camels' hair.

Dyes.—Usually good. Occasionally an aniline dyed one.

Designs.—More of the Persian character than the Karabaghs, resembling somewhat the rugs of Kurdistan. The field is usually covered with small floral forms, which are thrown broadcast.

Prices.—From $2.00 to $3.00 per square foot.

Sizes.—From three to four by five to seven feet. Runners two and one-half by eight to fifteen.

Remarks.—Seldom seen in the American market. They have kept pretty well up to their original standard. In many respects they are similar to the Karabagh, to which they are somewhat superior.

KASHAN

Why So Named.—After Kashan, a city of 30,000 inhabitants between Teheran and Ispahan, where they are made. Kashan is the centre of the silk rug industry in Persia and it was here that the famous Ardebil carpet was woven.

Knot.—Ghiordes. Number vertically twelve to thirty-five; number horizontally ten to twenty; number to square inch one hundred fifty to five hundred.

Warp.—Cotton, frequently silk or linen.

Woof.—Cotton, frequently silk or linen.

Nap.—Fine short wool, frequently silk.

Weave.—As a rule very evenly and tightly woven.

Sides.—Overcast with wool, sometimes with silk.

Ends.—Short web with loose warp threads at each end.

Border.—From three to seven border stripes.

Prevailing Colors.—Dark blues, reds, and greens; rose, turquoise, deep wine color, and ivory.

Dyes.—Good.

Designs.—Similar to those of the Saruk. Exclusively floral with many connecting vines; medallions; no plain fields.

Sizes.—Only carpet sizes.

Prices.—From $2.00 to $10.00 a square foot.

Remarks.—Among the antique Kashans are a number of old "Hunting Carpets" with elaborate detail work showing in their design forests with hunters and dogs pursuing animals of the chase.

THE EXAMPLE ILLUSTRATED

The Kashan silk rugs are as a class the best silk rugs made and this particular one illustrates the best Persian spirit in design and workmanship. Although not as finely woven as some, it has four hundred and eighty-four knots to the square inch and it is made exclusively of the best Persian silk.

SOUJ BULAK

Why So Named.-After Souj Bulak, the old Kurdish capital some distance south of Tabriz, where they are made by the Kurds.

Knot.—Ghiordes. Number vertically six to eight; number horizontally eight to eleven; number to square inch forty-eight to eighty-eight.

Warp.—Double yarn of wool. Sometimes half cotton and half wool.

Woof.—Double yarn of wool. Sometimes of wool and cotton.

Nap.—Best, soft, double-stranded wool.

Weave.—Closely and tightly woven, making the nap stand up straight.

Sides.—Overcast like other Kurdish rugs.

Ends.—One end has plain selvage, the other selvage and loose warp threads like most Kurdish rugs.

Border.—From two to five border stripes.

Prevailing Colors.—Dark reds, blues, and browns; also white and yellow.

Dyes.—Good.

Designs.—Kurdish designs as a rule. The Herati pattern is frequently employed.

Sizes.—Carpet sizes.

Prices.—Rather rare. From $2.00 to $5.00 per square foot.

Remarks.—Very compact, strong and serviceable.

TABRIZ

Why So Named.—After the city of Tabriz, the Persian capital, in the neighborhood of which they are made.

Knot.—Nearly always the Senna, occasionally Ghiordes. Number vertically twelve to twenty-two; number horizontally ten to twenty; number to square inch one hundred twenty to four hundred forty.

Warp.—Nearly always cotton. Silk in some extra fine specimens. Occasionally linen.

Woof.—Cotton, sometimes wool or linen. Formerly dyed the predominating color of the rug, but of late not dyed at all.

Nap.—Good wool, closely woven and closely trimmed.

Sides.—The antiques are usually overcast, while the moderns are generally selvaged.

Ends.—Narrow web with loose warp threads at each end. Occasionally trimmed. Frequently several strands of colored wool run through the web.

Border.—Generally five to eight border stripes; one wide one with an equal number of narrow ones on either side of it.

Prevailing Colors.—Bright blues, reds, and browns; ivory is frequently the predominating color of the field.

Dyes.—Usually good. Some of the modern pieces have aniline dyes. The blues, reds, and browns are especially likely to be aniline.

Designs.—Nearly always a medallion with field covered with intricate floral designs. Frequently verses from the Koran or of Persian poets are found in the borders. Tree of life patterns are frequent and a heart-shaped lamp often hangs from the niche in the prayer rugs. Seldom are figures of birds, animals, or human beings used.

Sizes.—All sizes, from mats to large carpets.

Cost.—From $3.00 to $10.00 per square foot.

Remarks.—The modern ones are too regular and exact in pattern and show European influences. They are so firm and closely woven that they are stiff and non-flexible.

With the Kirman the Tabriz shares the reputation of having the most graceful floral designs. They are purely Persian and have suffered little from outside influence. Many of them are so closely woven that they are apt to curl on the edges.

THE EXAMPLE ILLUSTRATED

This particular piece is a good example of the average design with its floral medallion and many border stripes.

BIJAR

Synonyms.—Sarakhs, Lule.

Why So Named.—After a town in Western Persia in the province of Kurdistan. Sometimes called Sarakhs because they are made by tribesmen who came from the old city by that name and settled around Bijar.

Knot.—Ghiordes. Number vertically six to ten; number horizontally eight to twelve; number to the square inch forty-eight to one hundred twenty.

Warp.—Heavy wool.

Woof.—Heavy wool, occasionally camels' hair.

Nap.—Heavy lustrous wool. The field is often of camels' hair.

Sides.—Overcast.

Ends.—Selvaged, sometimes a fringe woven on. The web of one end is frequently turned back and hemmed.

Border.—Usually from two to four border stripes.

Prevailing Colors.—Field frequently the natural color of the camel. Rich reds, blues, and greens; also white, old ivory, and yellow.

Dyes.—Usually good except in some of the modern pieces.

Designs.—Generally floral, often medallion centre with elaborate corner pieces. Inscriptions frequent. Patterns irregular. Modern ones inclined to be rectilinear. Antiques frequently have figures of birds, animals, and human beings.

Cost.—$1.50 to $4.00 per square foot.

Sizes.—Modern ones in carpet size; antiques three to five by five to eight.

Remarks.—The antiques are very rare and the modern ones are much inferior. Many of them are so thick and heavy that they cannot be folded but must be rolled up.

THE EXAMPLE ILLUSTRATED

Maj. L. B. Lawton's Description.—A complete rug in rare design. Usually such rarities are cut up so as to show the breaks in pattern, and fortunate collectors get one fraction. The soft colors in this are unusual even in Bijar.

See also illustration on page 328.

KERMANSHAH (MODERN)

Why So Named.—After the city of Kermanshah from which they are shipped, it being a great caravan centre.

Where Made.—In the vicinity of Tabriz and of Sultanabad.

Knot.—Nearly always the Senna, seldom the Ghiordes. Number vertically eight to sixteen; number horizontally eight to twelve; number to the square inch sixty-four to one hundred ninety-two.

Warp.—Always cotton.

Woof.—Always cotton, occasionally dyed brown.

Nap.—The choicest, lustrous wool, closely woven and usually cut short.

Ends.—Narrow web with loose warp threads at each end.

Sides.—Overcast with dark wool.

Borders.—From three to five border stripes, most frequently five, one wide with two narrow ones on each side.

Prevailing Colors.—Soft shades of pinks, greens, or blues on a field of old ivory.

Dyes.—In many the dyes are good, but are toned down with acids, while in others anilines are used.

Designs.—Delicate, artistic and intricate floral designs. Central medallion and corner panels frequent.

Sizes.—All sizes, from mats to carpets as large as thirty-five to fifty-five feet.

Cost.—$1.75 to $6.00 per square foot.

Remarks.—There is as much difference between the modern and the antique Kermanshahs as there is between any two kinds of the Persian class. The former are made at Tabriz or Sultanabad under European supervision, are almost invariably doctored and can be had in abundance, while the latter were made by the mountaineers along the Turkish border, are of the best material, dyes and workmanship and are rarely seen in the market.

THE EXAMPLE ILLUSTRATED

Like most of its class it consists of artistic and intricate floral designs with a central medallion and graceful border stripes. In many Kermanshahs, as in this piece, the pear motif is frequently employed. See illustration at page 118.

SENNA

Synonyms.—Sehna, Sinne, Senneh.

Why So Named.—After the city of Senna in the vicinity of which they are made.

Knot.—Senna always. Not equalled in number of knots by any other rug. Number vertically ten to thirty; number horizontally ten to thirty-two; number to the square inch one hundred to nine hundred sixty. Some antiques have as high as one thousand to the square inch.

Warp.—Cotton, sometimes silk or linen.

Woof.—Cotton, sometimes wool, silk or linen.

Nap.—Finest silky wool, very closely cut.

Sides.—Overcast with red cotton or silk.

Ends.—Always a narrow web at each end, with a fringe of loose warp threads. Frequently one or two strands of colored yarn run through the web at one end.

Border.—From two to seven border stripes, most frequently three, a wide one with a narrow one on either side, the former usually filled with rosettes which are connected by a wavy line. Sometimes it will carry the Herati design. The ground color of the main stripe is almost invariably bright red or yellow.

Prevailing Colors.—Usually subdued shades of red, blue, green, yellow, and pink; ivory, gold, sapphire, rose, and peach blow beautifully blended. The modern ones are too bright.

Dyes.—Many of the modern ones are aniline dyed.

Designs.—Palm leaf throughout the field is a common design. Also a central diamond or medallion frequently of the pole variety. Sometimes centre field is covered with flowers. A diaper arrangement of the Pear or Herati design is the most common.

Sizes.—Usually of medium size, four to five by six to eight; seldom larger. Saddle bags two and one-half to three by four feet; mats two feet by one foot.

Cost.—From $2.00 to $6.00 a square foot.

Remarks.—Excel in fineness of weave, but edges are likely to curl and pucker, consequently they do not lie well and are too thin to wear well.

THE EXAMPLE ILLUSTRATED

Like this piece most of the Sennas present the serrated diamond-shaped pole medallion with the Herati design. They frequently have the Herati border also, though this piece has not.

FERAGHAN

Synonym.—Sometimes erroneously called Iran, which means Persian.

Why So Named.—Because they are made on the plains of Feraghan, west of the line of travel between Teheran and Ispahan.

Knot.—All antiques are tied with the Senna knot. Some of the modern ones are tied with the Ghiordes knot. Number vertically, antiques eight to fourteen, moderns six to fourteen; number horizontally, antiques eight to eighteen, moderns five to twelve; number to square inch, antiques sixty-four to two hundred fifty-two, moderns thirty to one hundred sixty-eight.

Warp.—Always cotton.

Woof.—Nearly always cotton, sometimes dyed.

Nap.—Usually of good wool, frequently of camels' hair.

Sides.—Overcast, usually with black wool.

Ends.—Narrow selvage hemmed over at one end, with a selvage and loose warp threads at the other end.

Border.—From three to nine border stripes, which usually carry small floral designs. Herati border is the most common and is almost characteristic. Usually one wide border stripe with a background of green and from one to four narrow border stripes on each side of it.

Prevailing Colors.—Green usually forms the background of the main border. The field is usually dark blue, soft red or ivory. Yellow is used considerably in the modern ones.

Dyes.—Splendid in the antiques. Of inferior quality in the moderns.

Designs.—Herati field the most common. Occasionally the Guli Hinnai is employed. Sometimes a centre of plain red medallions. There may be a repetition of some small figures throughout the field. All animal and bird designs in the Feraghans are represented as in motion.

Sizes.—Usually small sizes, three to four by four to six. Occasionally carpet sizes. Antiques mostly oblong.

Prices.—Antiques $2.50 to $10.00 per square foot. Moderns $1.00 to $2.50.

Remarks.—They rank among the best fabrics of Persia, but of late years have fallen to the joblot level. The antiques are soft, durable and heavy, but are scarce.

THE EXAMPLE ILLUSTRATED

Owner's Description.—The typical Feraghan rendering of the Herati pattern is here illustrated in which the dark blue field and green main border carry the Persian variant of the Herati design, which is popularly known as the "fish pattern," and which is copied with more or less accuracy all through central Persia.

Hommel Rug (page 114).—Knot: Ghiordes; number to the inch, vertically nine; horizontally seven; to the square inch, sixty-three.

The field, like that of the majority of Feraghans, is covered with the Herati design. The background is of black and the figures are red, blue, green, pink, yellow and white.

The main border stripe carries eight-petaled flowers of various colors, connected by the fish-bone motif upon a ground of white. On either side of this is a flower and vine design in various colors, the inner one on a ground of old rose and the outer one on a ground of dark brown. The inner and outer border stripes carry the reciprocal saw-teeth; the former in blue and red and the latter in green and red.

The nap is about three-quarters of an inch in length and is exceedingly glossy.

HAMADAN

Synonyms.—Hamadieh, Hamadie.

Why So Named.—After the city of Hamadan, in the vicinity of which they are made. Hamadan is the capital of the province of Irak Ajemi in western Persia and has a population of 35,000.

Knot.—Ghiordes. Number vertically seven to ten; number horizontally seven to ten; number to square inch forty-nine to one hundred.

Warp.—Antiques always cotton.

Woof.—Usually considerable camels' hair in natural color. Cotton or wool.

Nap.—Usually good wool or camels' hair of medium length.

Weave.—Antiques fine. Moderns coarse.

Sides.—Overcast.

Ends.—Fringe at one end and hemmed web at the other.

Border.—Three to six border stripes, usually four. The characteristic feature is a broad outside band of camels' hair. The Herati border design is frequently used.

Prevailing Colors.—The natural camels' hair brown prevails with soft delicate reds, pinks, blues, and greens.

Dyes.—Of the best in the antiques, but generally poor in the modern fabrics.

Designs.—Pole medallion is almost universal. Field is usually filled with floral designs or a trellis arrangement. Antiques resemble animal skins.

Sizes.—Antiques come in all sizes. Moderns two to four by four to six and runners two to four by eight to thirty.

Prices.—$1.00 to $3.00 per square foot. Antiques rare and expensive.

Remarks.—The modern ones are poor. The antiques are handsome and durable.

THE EXAMPLES ILLUSTRATED

This piece, like most of its class, has a nap which consists principally of natural-colored camels' hair, as is manifested in

the central field and outer border. Like most Hamadans it also has a pole medallion in the centre of the field with corners to match. The weaver has adopted the Kurdish method of shading the field with camels' hair of different shades. The principal border stripe consists of alternate rosette and fish-bone motifs on each side of which there are small floral forms alternating in direction and connected by meandering vines.

Stanton Rug (page 110).—Like most of its class, this piece has a pile which consists mostly of undyed camels' hair. The colors, designs and border stripes are characteristic features, especially the motives in the outer border stripe, which are found in no other product. This piece has an unusually long nap, which not only adds to its wearing quality, but makes it lie better on the floor.

ISPAHAN

Synonym.—Isfayan. Sometimes, like the Feraghan, it is called Iran.

Why So Named.—After the city of Ispahan, the former capital of Persia, where they were made by expert weavers in the employ of the nobility at Ispahan, Teheran, and Saruk during the period of highest art.

Knot.—Senna. Number vertically ten to twenty; number horizontally eight to fifteen; number to the square inch eighty to three hundred.

Warp.—Cotton.

Woof.—Cotton.

Nap.—Best, soft, glossy wool.

Weave.—Usually close and even.

Sides.—Overcast.

Ends.—Narrow web with loose warp ends.

Border.—From three to five border stripes, usually three, one wide one between two narrow ones. The wide stripe is commonly of yellow, wine red, and green, especially in those made in the 16th century. The Herati design was frequently employed.

Prevailing Colors.—Deep reds, blues, and greens. Beautiful crimson. Deep wine colors known as Ispahan red. Field generally of deep red or blue.

Dyes.—The best.

Designs.—Very artistic. Rich in floral and animal decoration of the finest Persian type. Large palmette and rich floral patterns connected by vines and serrated leaves arranged similarly to the Herati pattern. Cypress cones and various tree forms. The Shah Abbas design was freely employed.

Sizes.—Generally long and narrow (runners). Seldom small.

Prices.—The antiques bring fabulous prices. Fragments have sold in recent years for $300 to $1000, and many carpets have brought from $15,000 to $25,000.

Remarks.—Extremely rare. Almost impossible to secure a genuine specimen. The Saruks are the Ispahans of the present day. The antiques are examples of the most perfect weaving skill. Many of the so-called Ispahans of the 16th and 17th centuries were really productions of Herat.

THE EXAMPLE ILLUSTRATED

In this choice old piece of the sixteenth century the Shah Abbas design, one of the most beautiful of all ancient designs, is used freely in the field and in the main border stripe. The fir tree and the cloud band are also freely employed in the field, the latter showing the Mongolian influence which was quite prominent in many of the fifteenth and sixteenth century pieces.

JOSHAGHAN

Synonyms.—Djoshaghan, Djushaghan, Youraghan.

Why So Named.—After the Persian village and the district of Joshaghan, where they are made.

Knot.—Ghiordes. Number vertically eight to twenty; number horizontally eight to twenty: number to square inch sixty-four to four hundred.

Warp.—Wool.

Woof.—Wool.

Nap.—Fine wool of medium length.

Sides.—Overcast.

Ends.—A thin narrow web with loose warp threads at each end.

Border.—Usually three border stripes, one wide with a narrow one on either side. The wider stripe generally has for the ground color a lighter tone of the same color which predominates in the field.

Prevailing Colors.—Soft-toned colors similar to those of the Hamadan. Ground is usually red.

Dyes.—Splendid in the antiques.

Designs.—Generally a sort of scroll carried throughout the margin of the field and forming medallions. A common design is a series of crosses with angular ends and adorned with floral figures; also the eight-pointed star between every four crosses arranged into a lattice. There are usually many four-and six-petaled roses.

Sizes.—Usually large, seven to nine by ten to fourteen.

Prices.—$2.00 to $5.00 per square foot.

Remarks.—Antiques excellent. Among the best Persian carpets. They resemble somewhat the Saraband. Not very common in the United States.

SARABAND

Synonyms.—Serebend, Sarawan. The finest ones are sometimes called Mir Saraband and the coarsest ones are frequently called Selvile.

Why So Named.—A corruption of the word Sarawan, which is the name of a mountainous district south of Feraghan, where they are made.

Knot.—Antiques are always tied with the Senna knot. Some of the modern ones are tied with the Ghiordes knot. Number vertically seven to fourteen; number horizontally eight to twelve; number to square inch fifty-six to one hundred eighty-eight.

Warp.—Always cotton.

Woof.—Always cotton, sometimes dyed. All good Mir Sarabands have a blue woof thread.

Nap.—Usually even, short cut, silky wool.

Sides.—Overcast, usually with a dark red wool.

Ends.—One end usually has a narrow web and short fringe of loose warp threads, while the other is generally a narrow web which is frequently turned over and hemmed. Frequently several strands of colored wool run through the web, as in the Kurdish productions.

Border.—Usually from four to twelve border stripes, the principal one of which is from three to four inches wide with an ivory white background and a vine design running through it, at each turn of which is a leaf similar in shape to that in the Herati pattern. The vine design is nearly always present and characterizes the Saraband border from all others. The smaller border stripes are generally filled by various well-known designs, such as the reciprocal trefoil, the barber-pole stripe, the Greek meander, etc.

Prevailing Colors.—The field is generally of a dark blue or a rich red. In antiques it is often of a pink or rose shade. The main border stripe is frequently of old ivory or red, while the other border stripes vary, most of them as a rule being the same color as that which predominates in the field.

Dyes.—As a rule are excellent. In the modern products some of these colors are liable to be aniline, especially the greens.

Designs.—The field is almost invariably covered with the pear design arranged in rows, the stems of each successive row running in the opposite direction. This is nearly always the case and with the exception of the Shiraz it seems to distinguish the field from that of other rugs such as the Khorasan products, where the same design is frequently used but where the stems usually run in the same direction. The Mir Saraband sometimes has a Herati centre.

Sizes.—Three to five by four to nine, three to nine by twelve to twenty-four.

Prices.—$2.00 to $6.00 per square foot.

Remarks.—Sarabands are usually firm in texture, lie well, never grow monotonous, and, on the whole, are most satisfactory.

THE EXAMPLE ILLUSTRATED

This piece beautifully illustrates the most common Saraband designs. The field is covered with rows of the pear motif upon a background of rich dark red. The main border stripe carries the characteristic Saraband border design upon a background of old ivory. The woof is dyed light blue, which shows in the webbing at each end.

SARUK

Synonyms.—Sarouk, Sarook.

Why So Named.—After Saruk, a small village in the Feraghan district, from whence they come.

Knot.—Always the Senna and usually as many to the square inch as any rug excepting the Senna. Number vertically eight to twenty-two; number horizontally six to twenty; number to square inch forty-eight to four hundred forty.

Warp.—As a rule cotton, occasionally linen.

Woof.—As a rule cotton, occasionally linen.

Nap.—Fine silky wool cut short.

Weave.—Close and hard.

Sides.—Overcast with dark wool or silk. They frequently curl on account of the tightness of the weave.

Ends.—Narrow web and loose warp threads at each end.

Border.—Three to five border stripes, usually three. Generally the Herati border, occasionally the modern form of the Shah Abbas border design.

Prevailing Colors.—Usually dark seal browns, greens, and reds. Generally a field of ivory, blue or red.

Dyes.—Generally good except in some of the modern pieces.

Designs.—There is always a medallion. Flowers freely introduced. Often queer-shaped floral figures.

Sizes.—Three to five by five to twenty feet. Usually oblong.

Prices.—$2.50 to $6.00 per square foot.

Remarks.—Sometimes called the "Modern Ispahan."

THE EXAMPLES ILLUSTRATED

Two plates in color of Saruks are given—at pages 40 and 166, with description accompanying each.

SULTANABAD

Synonyms.—Classed as Muskabad, Mahal and Savalan, according to grade.

Why So Named.—Muskabad is named after the village by that name and Savalan after a range of mountains in the northern part of the Sultanabad district, while Mahal is but a trade name.

Where Made.—In the Sultanabad district, which is the centre of rug weaving under European control.

Knot.—Generally the Ghiordes, sometimes the Senna. Number vertically five to eight; number horizontally six to fourteen; number to square inch thirty to one hundred twelve.

Warp.—Cotton.

Woof.—Cotton.

Nap.—Good quality of wool, usually of medium length.

Sides.—Overcast.

Ends.—Short web and loose warp threads of medium length.

Border.—Usually three border stripes, one wide one with a narrow one on either side. The Herati border design is the most frequent.

Prevailing Colors.—Bright reds, browns, blues, pinks, and greens with white.

Dyes.—A large percentage are aniline dyed.

Designs.—Usually large scrolls and floral patterns. The Herati design is quite common.

Sizes.—Carpet sizes only, eight to fifteen by ten to twenty.

Prices.—From $1.00 to $3.00 a square foot.

Remarks.—Those with good dyes are quite satisfactory, but at the present time most of the products of Sultanabad are purely commercial products.

THE EXAMPLE ILLUSTRATED

This piece most beautifully shows in its field the Guli Henna design, which is so commonly employed in the Sultanabad products.

NIRIS

Synonyms.—Laristan, Luristan.

Why So Named.—After the salt lake Niris in the province of Laristan, where they are made by the hillmen who inhabit the uplands of that section.

Knot.—Ghiordes. Number vertically eight to twelve; number horizontally five to eight; number to the square inch forty to ninety-six.

Warp.—Best stout wool.

Woof.—Best stout wool.

Nap.—Best wool of short or medium length.

Weave.—Not so closely woven as the best Shiraz, which they very much resemble.

Sides.—Overcast.

Ends.—A checked selvage at each end with a short fringe of warp, like the Shiraz.

Border.—Generally from three to five border stripes, some of which are quite elaborate. The barber-pole stripe is commonly used, but generally consists of several colors instead of only two as in the Caucasian fabrics.

Prevailing Colors.—Usually rather crude. Madder red predominates.

Dyes.—As a rule good.

Designs.—The pear pattern is commonly employed and when used it suggests the crown jewel, being an assemblage of points rather than of lines and more minutely worked out than are the smaller forms so common to the Saraband. No regularity of design, but quite similar to the Shiraz. Often a pronounced striped effect. Alternating rows of geometrical and floral designs.

Prices.—From $1.50 to $3.00 per square foot.

Remarks.—Strong and durable. Few reach America. They seem more like products of Turkestan than of Southern Persia.

THE EXAMPLE ILLUSTRATED

This particular design consisting of rows of pears with stems of alternate rows turned in the opposite direction is quite common in rugs of this class. The main border stripe in this piece also consists of the pear motif on each side of which is a barber-pole stripe.

SHIRAZ

Synonym.—Mecca, so called because they were so frequently taken by the shriners to the holy city of Mecca.

Why So Named.—After the city of Shiraz, where they are made.

Knot.—Generally the Senna, sometimes the Ghiordes. Number vertically seven to sixteen; number horizontally six to twelve; number to square inch forty-two to one hundred ninety-six.

Warp.—Generally heavy wool, sometimes goats' hair in the moderns, and frequently more than two woof threads between each row of knots.

Woof.—Always wool, frequently dyed.

Nap.—Lustrous, soft, short wool.

Weave.—Rather loosely woven as a rule.

Sides.—Overcast or braided with wool of two or more colors. Little tassels of wool frequently project from the overcasting on the sides.

Ends.—Web of medium width at each end which is often dyed red, white, and blue, or a plain red selvage with rows of colored yarns running through it.

Border.—From two to seven border stripes, some of which frequently carry a vine to which are attached oval-shaped flowers in alternate red and blue. The barber-pole stripe is frequently employed.

Prevailing Colors.—Rich colors like wine, autumn foliage, the plumage of birds, deep rich blues, reds, yellows, greens; usually dark blue field.

Dyes.—Good.

Designs.—Pole medallions almost universal. Has as a rule more figures of birds and animals than any other class of rugs. Pear pattern very common. The centre field is frequently filled with diagonal stripes. Flowers scattered throughout the field.

Sizes.—Usually medium, four to five by six to eight. Also carpet sizes. Saddle bags are very common.

Prices.—$1.25 to $3.00 per square foot.

Remarks.—They seldom lie well. They are often crooked and puffed up. The Bergama is the only other rug made with tassels along the sides.

THE EXAMPLES ILLUSTRATED

The field carries an unusual double arrangement of the pear motif, alternating with small tree forms. The outside border consists of small bird forms, each alternate row facing in the opposite direction. Note the elaborate webbing at each end. (See also page 104.) Prayer rugs of this class are exceedingly rare, in fact they are seldom seen in this country. This one is a gem, but has lost its principal Shiraz character in that the sides have been reovercast with wool of one color instead of with two or more colors, as it originally was. Another very unusual feature is the absence of two of the border stripes on the lower end. (See also color plate at page 52 and doubletone at page 208.)

HERAT

Synonyms.—Herati, Heratee.

Why So Named.—Probably so named because the Herati design, which is characteristic of the rug, originated in the city of Herat.

By Whom Made.—It is also said that the weavers of these rugs were originally from Herat.

Where Made.—In the province of Khorasan.

Knot.—Usually the Ghiordes. Number vertically six to twelve; number horizontally eight to twelve; number to square inch forty-eight to one hundred forty-four.

Warp.—Cotton. Silk in some of the antiques.

Woof.—Usually cotton, sometimes wool. As a rule dyed brown.

Nap.—Soft, glossy wool of medium length.

Weave.—Very closely woven.

Sides.—Overcast.

Ends.—Narrow web with loose warp threads at each end.

Border.—Usually from three to seven border stripes. The Herati design is common. Green is usually the background of the main border stripe.

Prevailing Colors.—Brilliant reds, greens, blues, and yellows, also ivory. Often a purplish pink cast.

Dyes.—Unsurpassed.

Designs.—Similar to those of the Feraghan. Most always the Herati design, the leaves of which are generally shaded on one side. Occasionally the pear pattern with the stems all facing in one direction. Once in a while a medallion centre.

Sizes.—Seldom small. Medium sizes are most common. Some runners and occasionally a saddle bag.

Prices.—$2.00 to $5.00 per square foot.

Remarks.—Durable and heavy. Resemble the Khorasan in most respects. Aiyin and Kayin are names sometimes given to a coarse form of Herat. Many of the Herats of the 16th and 17th centuries are now erroneously called Ispahans.

KHORASAN

Why So Named.—After the most northeastern province of Persia from which they come.

Knot.—Senna. Number vertically eight to fifteen; number horizontally ten to twenty-five; number to square inch eighty to three hundred seventy-five.

Warp.—Always white cotton.

Woof.—Usually cotton, occasionally wool.

Nap.—Fine wool of varying lengths.

Weave.—Characteristic, there being four or more rows of knots with no weft threads between, then several weft threads, etc., giving a peculiar look to the back of the rug and when it is bent the knots are shown in groups.

Sides.—Usually overcast. Occasionally an added selvage.

Ends.—Fringe of loose warp threads at each end.

Border.—Usually from three to seven border stripes, most frequently three, one wide one and two narrow ones. Some have as many as sixteen. The Herati border design is common.

Prevailing Colors.—Magenta is a prominent color; reds, blues, greens, pinks, and white. Usually a background of rich red, blue, or white.

Dyes.—Antiques all good. Modern pieces are usually poor.

Designs.—Pear designs common. Animals and birds frequently depicted. The Herati design is the most frequently seen. Medallion centre with corners to match. Two small pears resting their stems upon a larger one is a design also commonly used. The field is often plain.

Sizes.—All sizes but mostly large, seven to fifteen by ten to twenty-five feet.

Prices.—$1.50 to $3.50 per square foot.

Remarks.—Antiques durable, pliable, and soft. Especially suitable for living rooms, libraries, and halls. Modern ones are good in every respect excepting the dyes.

THE EXAMPLE ILLUSTRATED

For description see tissue accompanying color plate at page 32.

MESHED

Synonyms.—Mashhed, Meshad.

Why So Named.—After Meshed, the capital of Khorasan, where they are made.

Knot.—Usually the Senna, seldom the Ghiordes. Number vertically nine to twenty; number horizontally eight to twelve; number to square inch seventy-two to two hundred forty.

Warp.—Nearly always cotton, seldom wool.

Woof.—Usually wool, frequently cotton.

Nap.—Soft, silky, even wool of varying lengths.

Weave.—Characteristic with its uneven distribution of woof threads, even more so than in the Khorasan proper.

Sides.—Overcast with wool.

Ends.—Short web with loose warp threads at each end.

Border.—From three to seven border stripes. The Herati design very common.

Prevailing Colors.—The antiques have soft, subdued shades of blue, green, and pink, also ivory, while the modern ones have rather bright shades of the same colors.

Dyes.—In the antiques good. In the moderns poor.

Designs.—Similar to those of the Khorasan proper. The pear design predominates. The Herati is common. Animals and birds are frequently represented. Medallion centre common.

Sizes.—All sizes from three to ten by four to twenty feet or even larger.

Prices.—$2.00 to $4.00 per square foot.

Remarks.—Similar in design to the Khorasan proper, but usually of a finer grade. Also heavier and more durable.

THE EXAMPLE ILLUSTRATED

A color plate of this beautiful rug may be seen on page 22. Its description is given on the accompanying tissue.

KIRMAN

Synonym.—Kerman.

Why So Named.—After the province and city of Kirman from which they come.

By Whom Made.—By the wandering tribes of Afghars.

Knot.—Always Senna. Number vertically ten to twenty-four; number horizontally eight to twenty; number to square inch eighty to four hundred eighty.

Warp.—Cotton always.

Woof.—Usually wool, frequently cotton.

Nap.—Fine silky and durable wool.

Weave.—Very fine and close.

Sides.—Overcast.

Ends.—Narrow web with fringe at each end.

Border.—Three to eight border stripes, usually three, one wide one with a narrow one on either side. Frequently there is a narrow strip of plain rose color all around the outer edge.

Prevailing Colors.—Light, soft, delicate blue, green, rose, old gold, and fawn.

Dyes of the best.

Designs.—Tree of life, birds, fruit, bouquets, vases; more naturalistic and less geometrical than any other Oriental rugs. Frequently a medallion centre.

Sizes.—All sizes from mats to carpets.

Prices.—From $2.00 to $5.00 per square foot.

Remarks.—Genuine Kirmans are rather scarce because of the remoteness of the district from the centres of trade. They are not to be compared with the Kermanshahs or the Turkish Kirmans. The latter are coarse, modern, commercial products. Kirman rugs are soft and durable.

THE EXAMPLES ILLUSTRATED

Holmes Rug (page 212).—The field design, consisting of rows of vases filled with red roses, is quite common to this class of rugs, but the border is rather unusual, being a mixture of Persian and Chinese motifs.

Trump Rug (page 210).—A masterpiece both in workmanship and design. In the prayer field is the Tree of Life resting in a large urn. Note the medallion with Arabic inscriptions.

Kirman Saddle Bag (page 326).—The field is filled with the ordinary Kirman rendition of the rose. On one end of the Ghileem part is a piece of leather put there by the proud owner to prevent it from wearing by friction on the donkey's neck. Underneath will be found the original girdle and buckle.

KURDISTAN PROPER

Why So Named.—After the country in which they are made. A province occupying the eastern part of Turkey in Asia and the western part of Persia.

By Whom Made.—By the Nomadic tribes who live in the mountains of Kurdistan.

Knot.—Always the Ghiordes. Number vertically six to eight; number horizontally six to ten; number to square inch thirty-six to eighty.

Warp.—Dark twisted wool or goats' hair. Usually gray.

Woof.—As a rule wool, sometimes goats' or camels' hair. Usually several woof threads between each row of knots.

Nap.—Usually good heavy gray wool which is cut long; sometimes goats' hair, camels' hair, or kurk.

Weave.—Generally good, the knots being well tied.

Sides.—Always overcast, frequently with different colored wools, most frequently brown.

Ends.—Usually a thick narrow selvage with knotted fringe or loose warp ends. Nearly always one or two lines of colored wool run through the selvage. This is a Kurdish characteristic and is a distinguishing feature. Often the web of one end is turned back and hemmed.

Border.—From two to nine border stripes, usually from three to four, one wide one with one or two narrow ones on each side. The main border stripe usually carries designs in profile.

Prevailing Colors.—Usually dark rich reds, greens, blues, yellows, pinks, and terra cotta, beautifully varied. The shading of colors is also a Kurdish characteristic.

Dyes.—Usually of the best. The Kurds have clung to the old colors more than any of the other rug-making people.

Designs.—Generally wild, irregular figures of various sizes scattered carelessly and the intervals filled with small indistinct figures. Lattice designs with each division filled with floral forms. The Herati and the pear designs are occasionally used.

Sizes.—Seldom large. From four to five by seven to eight feet and occasionally in carpet sizes.

Prices.—Usually from $0.75 to $3.00 per square foot. The prayer rugs are rare and expensive.

Remarks.—Freest of all from outside influences. Hard when new but most durable and satisfactory. In fact it is the best moderate priced rug now on the market.

THE EXAMPLE ILLUSTRATED

Owner's Description.—Upon a rich blue ground the Mina Khani design is accurately wrought, and the five-petaled Henna blossoms are symmetrically placed in their customary relation to the dark red, blue and golden yellow floral rosette forms distributed over the field. Three rather narrow borders surround the field, the middle one of which is yellow. The inner and outer borders carry tawny colors and small patterns.

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