The ancient city of Nahavand is situated in the Hamadan province in Western Iran. It is the third largest city in the province with a population of roughly 80,000 inhabitants. The surrounding region is one of Iran’s most productive carpet making areas and almost every village makes their own unique carpets. The carpets are generally very simple and durable and can be found in many different sizes.
Nahavand carpets are made with very high quality, shiny wool that gives the carpet a beautiful lustre. These carpets perfectly withstand daily wear and are great for high frequented areas such as reception areas, entrances and hallways. The artistic expression is rich and varied, largely inspired by Malayer design and carpets with geometrical motifs and elements of nomadic animals and floral art can be found.
A typical characteristic of a Nahavand carpet is a central medallion decorated with leaf, flower and branch motifs that is framed by stylized floral patterns. Nahavand carpets are considered to be of higher ranking when compared to other carpets in the Hamadan region and although they have a relatively low knot density, this is not a sign of lower quality. When determining the quality of a handknotted carpet, the quality of the material (wool) used is more important than the knot density. The knot density only becomes a decisive factor when it comes to more exclusive silk carpets.
Nahavand carpets generally consist of a beautiful combination of red and beige tones on a predominantly blue background. These carpets adorn many homes around the world and will age beautifully if properly cared for.