Area Rug Guide: Sultanabad Rugs

Whether you want to give your room’s interior a 19th-century European royalty flair or just to amp up the vibe of your minimalist home setup, a Sultanabad area rug is an excellent choice. This type of handmade rug is influenced by both Middle Eastern and Western culture making it easy to blend with a wide range of interior designs. 

Area Rug Guide: Sultanabad Rugs History and Origin

 Sultanabad rugs are named after ‘Soltân Âbâd’ which is now Arak City, widely known as the ‘Industrial Capital of Iran’. Production of these rugs began in the 19th century following the establishment of the city built by the Persian Qajar Dynasty. The ruling dynasty at that time had envisioned Sultanabad to be the center of rug production in North West Iran. Around 1808, Sultanabad rugs have successfully adorned homes outside its borders. 

 Sultanabad rug patterns were heavily influenced by Mahal carpets, widely known for its sophisticated and intricate designs. However, the designs of Sultanabad rugs are considered to be Western-influenced craftsmanship rather than a quintessential Arak culture. One notable development in the history of its production is the arrival of the Manchester-based Anglo-Swiss Persian rug producer and distributor Ziegler & Co.in Sultanabad to establish a manufactory. This was to meet the increasing demand of Europeans and Americans for fine rugs. 

Area Rug Guide: Sultanabad Rugs Pattern, Design, and Colors

 The design patterns of Sultanabad rugs have drastically evolved from the beginning of its production until the arrival of companies like Ziegler & Co. Western influence on traditional Persian motifs was embraced and earned its reputation among collectors and dealers. Sultanabad rug patterns are more curvilinear and classical. It is close to that of Heriz’s or Serapi’s patterns. But weavers working for these Western companies played with it to make it more appealing to the European market, particularly incorporating the design trends of the ‘Arts and Crafts’ movement. It was an artistic influence that originated in the British Isles and dominated Europe and North America in the 19th century.

 Among the distinct characteristics of Sultanabad rugs that makes them so appealing is scaled up floral and medallion patterns. They are sharply defined flourish motifs and arabesques. At times, these rugs would possess vinery, palmettes, and blossom designs that cover more space. Sometimes, they are arranged asymmetrically. Apart from large designs, it has a supple weave and is larger to fit the specifications of western rooms. 

 Sultanabad rugs also have toned-down versions of traditional North West Persian rugs’ bold color palettes which ranged from reds, golds, beiges, and ivories. Dark hues were mellowed to deep, vibrant, neutrals, or pastels. In some cases, rug designs retained strong hues while others have unique color combinations to give the customers more options. 

Why Choose Sultanabad Rugs

 The appeal of Sultanabad area rugs has gone beyond European and American homes. Not only because they work well with most room setups and interior design styles but many designers also choose this rug because of its classic yet tribal designs that make them so versatile. It exudes a fusion of cultural and contemporary feel, which blends well with late 19th to early 20th-century furniture pieces as well as modern ones. Many designers suggest using it to give flavor to a minimalist space or to create a regal Western-themed room. No matter the style and look of space one is going for, the Sultanabad rug is an exceptional choice.