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
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Shop for Persian Rugs on 1stDibs
3'7"x8'6" Blush Red Vintage Persian Shiraz Hand Knotted Pure Wool Runner Rug
Located in Carlstadt, NJ
Blush Red, Vintage Persian Shiraz with Geometric Medallion Design, Distinct Abrash, Worn and Distressed, Shaved Down, Zero Pile, Sides and Ends Professionally Secured, Clean, Hand Kn...
Category
Vintage 1960s Persian Bohemian Persian Rugs
Materials
Wool
$570 Sale Price
25% Off
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. Some historical repairs.
Category
Early 20th Century Persian Edwardian Persian Rugs
Materials
Wool
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
Vintage Bidjar Persian Tribal Kilim in Red, Gold and Blue Stripes by Rug & Kilim
Located in Long Island City, NY
This vintage 2x10 Persian Kilim is a new addition of Bidjar provenance in Rug & Kilim's rare tribal curations. Handwoven in wool circa 1950-1960.
Further on the Design:
Bidjar Kil...
Category
Vintage 1950s Persian Tribal Persian Rugs
Materials
Wool
$1,720 Sale Price
20% Off
Zabihi Collection Antique Persian Sarouk Lilihan Small Rug
Located in New York, NY
a 1920s Persian small-sized rug with a sea foam green field
Details
rug no. j3036
size 3' 5" x 4' 4" (104 x 132 cm)
Category
Early 20th Century Agra Persian Rugs
Materials
Wool