Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
Why are Persian rugs so expensive?
1 Answer

Persian rugs can be expensive because they are made with the highest quality materials, the cost of which trickles down to the consumer, and because of the long time that it takes to create these majestic works.
Antique and vintage Persian rugs are handmade from the finest materials, including wool and silk. These fibers are colored using natural dyes derived from insects and plants and woven into bold designs that reflect Iran’s culture and history. Regarded as works of art, carpets and rugs of this kind can take months or years to complete.
Iran (modern-day Persia) encompasses different cultures, languages and dialects, and its exquisite rugs reflect this diversity. The fascination with Persian rugs dates at least as far back as the 4th century B.C., when historian Xenophon referred to the “soft rugs on which the Persians sit.” For centuries, Iran has been known for the craftsmanship, intricate patterns and artistry of its carpets, which have found their way into households and museums around the world.
The antique and vintage Persian rugs for sale on 1stDibs include Persian tribal rugs, handmade silk Persian rugs and more.
Antique and vintage Persian rugs are handmade from the finest materials, including wool and silk. These fibers are colored using natural dyes derived from insects and plants and woven into bold designs that reflect Iran’s culture and history. Regarded as works of art, carpets and rugs of this kind can take months or years to complete.
Iran (modern-day Persia) encompasses different cultures, languages and dialects, and its exquisite rugs reflect this diversity. The fascination with Persian rugs dates at least as far back as the 4th century B.C., when historian Xenophon referred to the “soft rugs on which the Persians sit.” For centuries, Iran has been known for the craftsmanship, intricate patterns and artistry of its carpets, which have found their way into households and museums around the world.
The antique and vintage Persian rugs for sale on 1stDibs include Persian tribal rugs, handmade silk Persian rugs and more.
1stDibs ExpertApril 3, 2024
Related Questions
- What is the difference between an Oriental rug and a Persian rug?1 Answer
- Do Persian rugs fade?1 Answer
- What is a vintage Persian rug?1 Answer
- What are Persian rugs made of?1 Answer
- What do Persian rugs symbolize?1 Answer
Shop for Persian Rugs on 1stDibs
Late 19th Century Antique Persian Afshar Pictorial Rug
Located in Dallas, TX
79287 Rare Late 19th Century Antique Persian Afshar Pictorial Rug, 04'01 x 05'09. A Woven Legacy of Prestige and Purpose: 1880s Persian Afshar Pictorial Rug. Woven in the twilight of...
Category
Antique Late 19th Century Persian Persian Rugs
Materials
Wool
Antique Khamseh Wool Rug with Birds and Geometric Motifs Tribal Natural Carpet
Located in Tokyo, JP
This striking antique Khamseh rug, handwoven in southern Iran during the late 19th to early 20th century, captures the spirit and vitality of Qashqai tribal artistry. Measuring 133 c...
Category
Early 20th Century Turkish Oushak Rugs
Materials
Wool, Natural Fiber, Organic Material
Large Heriz carpet, Western Persia early 20th century
Located in London, GB
A beautiful good proportioned West Persian Heriz handwoven carpet. Early 20th century. Fairly evenly worn retaining original colour.
Category
Early 20th Century Persian Edwardian Persian Rugs
Materials
Wool
Zabihi Collection Persian Veece Tribal Rug
Located in New York, NY
a 1930s Persian Tribal veece room size rug in orange and blue
Details
rug no. j2922
size 8' 11" x 13' (272 x 396 cm)
Category
20th Century Persian Tabriz Persian Rugs
Materials
Wool
Zabihi Collection Red Persian Malayer Small Size Square Rug
Located in New York, NY
1930s Persian Malayer Scatter size square rug in reds
Details
rug no. j2999
size 3' 6" x 4' 4" (107 x 132 cm)
Category
20th Century Persian Tabriz Persian Rugs
Materials
Wool
Zabihi Collection 20th Century Turkish Slithering Snake Anatolian Rug
Located in New York, NY
A mid 20th Century Turkish Rug depicting 2 slithering snakes on an ivory field
Details
rug no. r5744
size 4' 3" x 6' (130 x 183 cm)
Category
Mid-20th Century Persian Folk Art Persian Rugs
Materials
Wool