Carpet weavers and designers of Mashad, these skilled artists, often in the past, used to weave their names onto the carpets. These signed carpets hold a greater value nowadays. One of the important characteristics of authentic handwoven carpets of Mashhad is that there is no compromise in using high-quality raw materials. The older they get, the more they shine and become more attractive. This beauty and allure of the carpet, whether from afar or up close, is present when you see it. The presence of a few renowned and traditional designers, such as Abdulhamid Sanatnegar and Ali Akbar Tarhchi, and manufacturers like Amoo-Oghli, Makhmalbaf, Saber, Qazi Khani, and others, have provided valuable services in the growth and development of authentic handwoven carpets of Mashad, Iranian treasures, and their products are internationally renowned.

The most attractive and authentic designs for handwoven Mashhad carpets include:

1. A combination of relatively large Shah Abbas flowers alongside Kerman carpet motifs.
2. Flowers that incorporate not only Islamic patterns but also miniature designs.
3. A fusion of Shah Abbas flowers, birds, and animals, arranged in a way that evokes a sense of life in nature. Typically, a single medallion is placed in the center of these designs.

It’s worth mentioning that Mashhad is the capital of Khorasan Province, but there are differences between Mashhad carpets and Khorasan carpets.

In weaving the authentic handwoven Mashhad rugs of Persia, high-quality wool is utilized, renowned for its excellence across the country. The warp and weft of these carpets, onto which the design is woven, are often made of cotton, contributing significantly to its durability. The predominant color of these carpets is primarily red, although other colors such as earthy tones, deep blues, and charcoal hues have also been used as solid colors in the background of the carpets. These colors exhibit stability and exceptional quality. In particular, handwoven Mashhad rugs, up to 15 different colors, are sometimes employed in a single piece, adding to the distinctive features that define them.

The red color observed in the carpets of Mashhad, Iran, was historically extracted from the bodies of animals as a natural source. For instance, in the past, the red dye was obtained from the larvae of the red insect (Cochineal), producing a vibrant and non-toxic red hue. This dye was then utilized in dyeing raw wool for carpet weaving. Another reason for the prominence of red is that it is among the predominant colors in authentic Iranian carpets, and Mashhad’s handwoven carpets are no exception to this rule. The color red conveys a sense of energy and self-confidence.

Five Important Reasons Why Iranian Mashhad Carpets Are so Special:

1. It boasts a history of at least 500 years.
2. It is one of the most classic and exquisite examples of authentic Iranian and Eastern carpets.
3. A unique shade of red is employed in the handwoven Mashhad carpets, adding to their authenticity.
4. Antique Mashhad carpets employ a distinct weaving technique that combines Persian and Turkish knots, enhancing their durability.
5. Mashhad’s authentic Iranian handwoven carpet effortlessly captivates all art enthusiasts with its inherent beauty.

Often, in the ancient carpets of Mashhad, a specific weaving technique is utilized, combining Turkish knots with Persian knots. This combination enhances the structural integrity of the rug, resulting in increased durability. With proper care, these carpets can remain intact for several centuries. However, in modern times, due to various weaving practices in different locations within Mashhad, the quality of new carpets varies significantly. It is crucial to conduct thorough research before purchasing to ensure you are making an informed choice.