Bidjar — the “Iron Rug of Persia”

Bidjar (Bijar) is a Kurdish weaving town in northwestern Persia, known for densely knotted, sturdy rugs. The wool is packed tightly on a firm foundation, and Bidjar rugs are traditionally called the “iron rugs of Persia” — stiff and heavy. This piece is semi-antique, hand-knotted in the 1960s–70s.

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 a widespread motif in Persian weaving. 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 147 × 255 cm (3.75 m²) this is a versatile medium format. Three contexts in which the Bidjar comes into its own:

• Living room: in front of a sofa or beneath a coffee table, the dense fish-field and rich palette give the space classic Persian character.
• Study or dining area: the firm, dense construction suits rooms in regular use.
• Entrance or hallway: the firm, heavy weave lies flat in a busy entrance.

Specifications

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 and designer rugs since 1967. Djoharian is also a Label STEP certified dealer for fair-trade knotted rugs (new production).

Service and Delivery

Every piece is expertly inspected in our atelier in Lohr am Main before dispatch. For expert washing and repair we offer our own professional rug cleaning service. Secure and fast worldwide shipping, fully insured, and personal consultation in our showroom or by video call.