Heriz Rugs Characteristics and Origin

The world of rugs has always been a dynamic one with each of its types having its own rich history and cultural value. One of the rugs that have passed the test of time is Heriz AKA Heris rug. A true Heriz rug is associated with abundant design ideas and the ability to endure. Not for nobody it is highly coveted by the collectors and enthusiasts alike.

This article will take you on a guided tour through the history and origin story of Heriz rugs and carpets, regarding their profile, uniqueness compared to other rugs, evolution in time, care and maintenance, its value, and investment depth.

The Origin of Heriz Rugs

The Heris Rug can be categorized as a Persian art form originating from the Heris city, which is located in the Northwest of Iran. This land holds a great legacy of carpet weaving and proudly between all of them is the Heriz Rug. 

Heriz carpet was most influenced by those of the Caucasus tribes whose carpets are known for their brilliant colors and geometric shapes. The weavers in Heris are also influenced by the patterns of the adorned flower vases and use them as inspiration to create their style resulting in a design that is instantly recognizable.

The use of high-grade wool from the local sheep in Heriz rugs, in addition to the highest quality craftsmanship of the weavers, created a rug that is extremely durable and long-lasting.

Note: Heriz rugs are not the same as Tabriz rugs. Heriz rugs are made using different designs and processing techniques than Tabriz rugs and almost all other Persian carpets.

The Characteristics of a Heriz Persian Rug

The Heriz rug is one of the most distinctive types of Persian rugs, not only for its durability but also for the fact that its patterns are bold and intricate. In many cases, Heriz carpets have quite large designs comprised of medallions, floral motifs, and intricate geometrical ornaments.

The colors are always vibrant and eye-catching, red and blue are the most popular hues, but Ivory is also used. The use of natural dyes gives Heriz rugs a kindly and cozy feel, which lends to the rugs being more likely appreciated for their intended use, and their overall value.

The Difference between Heriz and Serapi Rugs

Speaking about Heriz Rugs, one must point out that they are a collective of Serapi Rugs. While people usually think of them together, there are some lines between them. Similar to the ones found in the museum, these two rugs share the same patterns and features. However, what makes them different from each other is the place where they were created.

Heriz rugs are made in Heris City but Serapi rugs are made in the nearby towns. In traditional times, Serapi Rugs featured higher knot densities and better craftsmanship, and hence they used to be more valuable among people.

Nevertheless, increased demand for Heriz Rugs eventually contributed to the upgrading of the rugs' quality and artistry, resulting in a hazy distinction between them.

The Evolution of Heriz (Heris) Rugs over Time

Throughout centuries, the Heriz Rugs have transformed and adjusted as to the changing styles and customers’ brightness. In the beginning, designs were more Arabic and triangle in nature in comparison to the caucasian rugs which is an indication of the identical origins. Slowing the aging process, the designs became more and more convoluted and floral, realizing impacts from the Persian rug tradition that can be seen in Isfahan rugs, Kerman rugs, and Kashan rugs.

In the era between the late 19th century and the early 20th century, the Heriz Persian rugs have become delighted in the Western market, especially in the United States. 

Antique Heriz Rugs

Old Heriz Rugs can be emotionally meaningful not just for the people who purchase and collect them but for the ones who love them as well. These handmade rugs have been through something that is not possible to be reconstructed with modern cart plains and represent the great craftsmanship of the old hand-made skills of previous human generations.

We usually see the signs of use, as well as the patina (the outer covering of the rug that develops as it ages), of some of these antique area rugs and they just underline the characteristic and authenticity of the carpet.

While an antique Heriz Rug is a valuable purchase, careful attention must be paid to its condition and provenance before making the purchase. Check for the occurrence of wear like fading and bush margins as they can affect its lifespan and value.

Besides, it is recommended to gather as much information about the rug's history and previous owners, since the reason such information can principally enhance the price and its popularity.

Vintage Heriz Rugs

Vintage rugs usually designate those that evolve over the period of 30 to 100 years and combine elements of classical and modern design. 

Best to give your focus to the ages and overall quality of the rug when shopping for a vintage Heriz rug. Give intensive consideration to the even wear of the tissue and the strong color of the threads that signify great care and maintenance.

Also, take the space and design of the rug into account, and match or contrast it with other interior items.

Heriz Rugs Maintenance and Care

A good maintenance and care plan helps to keep the rug good looking for a long time. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Ensure that the rug is vacuumed on a routine basis to remove dirt and debris. Employ the low power option and the setting of a vacuum cleaner that is equipped with a brushless suction head instead of suctioning which will prevent harming the rug fibers.
2. Apply your rug regularly for even wearing out. This is especially true for those silk rugs located at the high-traffic areas where so many visitors are passing.
3. It is not advisable to bring your rug into direct sunlight as this will prevent fading and damage the colors of the carpet.

How to Identify a Genuine Heriz (Heris) Rug

Along with Heriz rugs' rise in popularity, you can pretty often discover that there are numerous imitations and copies on the market anyway.

To ensure that you are purchasing a genuine Heriz Rug, here are a few key points to consider: 

• Find the Heriz Rug's signature design details including patterned motifs, vast medallions, and vibrant colors. Such organic effects are the essential elements for the realism of the Heriz area rugs.
• Scrutinize its build and materials. Authentic Heriz Rugs represent masterpieces knotted by highly professional craftsmen with the use of high-quality wool, which gives a well-knotted, deep, and tight pile.
• Ensure that the rug is genuine and its origin particularly its creation is carefully validated. Reputable rug trade should be able to give you details about the rug's origin and hopefully also present certifications or appraisals.

Just like you would never buy any other type of product without checking or verifying its quality, do the same when searching for authentic Indigenous art or crafts – buy only from reliable sellers such as CyrusCrafts. If the deal seems unfair and suspicious, it is probably a scam.

The Value and Investment Potential of Heriz Carpet

Heriz rugs continue to capture the collectors' and investors’ hearts for their high status and financial gains. As they are durable, very intriguing, and historical at the same time. The value of an antique Heriz Carpet is determined by its age and condition.

If you think about investing in Heriz area rugs, it will be crucial for you to consult experts and do sufficiently general investigation work.

Seek out carpets, especially collectible pieces that are in good condition because the chances for their value appreciation in the future are greater. Besides that, holding the various types and styles of rugs can also help in the growth of their value in the future market.