Origin and Weaving Tradition

Karaja is a small village in the Heriz district of northwestern Iran, in the historic weaving region between Tabriz and Ardebil, close to the Azerbaijani border. Karaja work shares the geometric vocabulary of the wider Heriz family and draws on the visual language of the neighbouring Caucasus. The Eagle-Kazak design seen here, also called Tschelaberd, with its bold double medallions, is one of the clearest expressions of that Caucasian influence: graphic, architectural and tribal in character.

This is a semi-antique piece, hand-knotted circa 1940 in the Karaja village of the Heriz district. It is made of wool on a cotton foundation and uses the symmetrical (Turkish) knot typical of the region. The composition centres on two stepped star medallions — the “eagles” that give the design its name — set against an open field and framed by multiple tribal borders.

Colour and Composition

The field is a warm rust-red to terracotta, carrying the two large medallions with their ivory radiating points and navy-blue centres worked with green and red florals. The borders run in navy and rust with ivory and gold floral-geometric motifs. The palette — rust-red, navy, ivory, with green and gold accents — has softened with age into a balanced, naturally aged register.

Condition

Very good original condition for its age, with mostly full pile. The rug has been professionally inspected and washed.

Presence in the Room

At 135 × 225 cm (3.0 m²) this is a medium room-size piece. Three settings in which it works well:

• Modern industrial loft: the bold graphic medallions and the saturated palette pair with raw concrete, blackened steel, oak and leather.
• Mid-century interior: the graphic design sits well beside mid-century furniture, and the rust-red ground warms a room of natural materials.
• Traditional space: the Caucasian-influenced vocabulary suits interiors with darker wood and heavy upholstery.

Specifications

Djoharian — Since 1967

Our family business was founded in 1967, with roots in the Grand Carpet Bazaar of Tehran. Djoharian is also a Label STEP certified dealer (applies to new production).

Service and Delivery

Every piece is inspected and professionally washed in our atelier in Lohr am Main. Insured worldwide shipping; personal consultation in our showroom or by video call. For later care, see our rug cleaning and restoration service. We also make bespoke rugs in your own size and colours.