One-of-a-kind

Antique Sarouk ca. 1900Hand KnottedRug

Brown / BlackRunner125 x 385 cm

This runner belongs to the storied tradition of Sarough rugs, originating from the Markazi region of Persia. Sarough has long been celebrated for producing some of the most enduring and finely crafted floor coverings in the area, often favoured by Western collectors since the late 19th century for their exceptional durability and refined aesthetic.

The construction features traditional hand-knotting methods where individual wool yarn strands are tied tightly to the foundation warp and weft threads. This dense structural approach ensures the pile stands upright and resists wear, allowing antique pieces like this to survive gracefully across more than a century of use.

Visually, this rug showcases classic Sarough design vocabulary, characterised by intricate floral sprays and botanical motifs arranged gracefully across a rich red field. The deep dark-blue borders frame the composition with formal balance, displaying a harmonious interplay of natural dyes that have mellowed softly with age.

Collecting a piece from this era represents a connection to a rich cultural heritage where weaving was both an art form and a daily way of life. Owning such an antique means preserving a tangible link to the past, valued for its authentic craftsmanship and enduring artistic expression.

This runner is entirely handmade using traditional hand-knotted techniques passed down through generations. Creating a piece of this scale with a density of 160,000 knots per m2 requires an immense investment of human labour, with skilled artisans dedicating many months to tie each individual knot by hand.

Weighing 14.4 kg across its 385 x 125 cm dimensions, the rug demonstrates a robust and substantial foundation. This impressive weight reflects the generous amount of natural wool and dense packing of the foundation, ensuring long-lasting durability and exceptional structural integrity.

The meticulous placement of every single knot guarantees the sharpness of the floral motifs and the resilience of the pile. This dedication to traditional craftsmanship results in a floor covering built to withstand daily life while retaining its refined beauty over decades.