Bidjar — The Iron Rug of Persia

Bidjar (Bijar) is a Kurdish weaving town in northwestern Persia, famous for producing some of the most densely knotted and durable rugs in the entire Persian canon. The wool is packed so tightly on a robust foundation that Bidjar rugs are traditionally called the “iron rugs of Persia” — stiff, heavy and built to last generations. This piece is semi-antique, hand-knotted in the 1960s–70s, and carries the firm handle and longevity for which the town is renowned.

The Mahi (Herati) Design

The field carries the Mahi design — from the Persian word for “fish.” Also known as the Herati pattern, it is built from a small rosette framed by a diamond, with four curved leaves at the corners that resemble fish circling a pond. Repeated across the entire field, it is one of the most enduring and beloved motifs in Persian weaving, and Bidjar is among its most accomplished interpreters. A stepped central medallion with pendants anchors the dense fish-field.

Colour and Composition

A deep navy field carries the fine Mahi fish-field in brick-red, rose, ivory, gold-camel, light blue and green. At the centre, a stepped ivory and light-blue medallion with red and rose floral drawing is set off by brick-red corner spandrels. A bold brick-red main border of palmettes and flowering vine frames the field, flanked by camel-gold and ivory guard borders. Ivory wool fringes finish the ends.

Presence in the Room

At 255 × 147 cm (3.75 m²) this is a versatile medium format. Three contexts in which the Bidjar reaches its full effect:

• Living room: In front of a sofa or beneath a coffee table, the dense fish-field and jewel palette anchor the space with classic Persian character.
• Study or dining area: The exceptional durability of a Bidjar makes it ideal for high-traffic rooms; it will outlast almost any other rug underfoot.
• Entrance or hallway: The firm, heavy weave lies flat and wears beautifully in a busy entrance, welcoming visitors with luminous colour.

Specifications

Responsible Sourcing · Label STEP

Djoharian is a Label STEP certified dealer for fair-trade knotted rugs — a commitment to dignified working conditions and against child labour in rug production. Visit the Label STEP entry for Djoharian Teppiche →

Djoharian — Since 1967

With roots in the Grand Carpet Bazaar of Tehran and more than five decades of experience in the international rug trade, Djoharian has specialised in antique, designer and collector rugs since 1967.

Service and Delivery

Every piece in the Djoharian Collection is expertly inspected in our atelier in Lohr am Main, professionally washed and shipped with a certificate of authenticity. We offer secure and fast worldwide shipping, fully insured, and personal consultation in our showroom or by video call.