Antique Heriz & Serapi Collection

Powerful pattern. Enduring heritage. The Antique Heriz & Serapi Rugs collection showcases some of the most iconic designs in the Persian weaving tradition—known for their architectural geometry, saturated color, and lasting quality.

Serapi rugs are admired for their clarity of design and softer palettes, while Antique Heriz rugs often lean bolder, with deep reds, inky blues, and large-scale medallions that command attention. Both styles are considered masterworks of handwoven Persian rugs, each carrying the strength of tribal design and the refinement of generations-old technique.

Woven in the northwest of Iran, these pieces were made to last, and it shows—many are over a century old and still vibrant. Whether you’re drawn to a vintage Heriz rug for its lived-in character or a Serapi rug for its balance and proportion, each one brings a sense of place, purpose, and history into your home.

Looking for something truly timeless? Antique Heriz & Serapi Rugs are as versatile as they are striking—easily styled in traditional, transitional, or modern spaces.

Discover the perfect Antique Heriz or Serapi rug to elevate your space.

Why Choose Antique Heriz & Serapi Rugs

Some rugs are made to blend in. These are made to lead.

Antique Heriz & Serapi rugs are celebrated for their strength—both in construction and design. Their bold medallions, angular motifs, and richly layered colors give them an unmistakable presence, whether they’re anchoring a classic room or adding contrast to a more modern space.

These are not just Persian rugs—they’re heirloom works of art, created to withstand both foot traffic and fleeting trends. Whether you’re drawn to the graphic geometry of a Heriz rug or the subtle refinement of a Serapi, each one offers a sense of history and a quality that lasts.

Craftsmanship and Materials

Rug Origins and Design Characteristics

Handwoven in northwestern Iran, Heriz and Serapi rugs share regional roots but have distinct identities. Serapi rugs tend to be older, rarer, and more refined—often woven with more space between motifs and softer contrast in their colors. Heriz rugs, while equally enduring, are known for their dense, dynamic patterns and saturated tones.

Both styles use high-quality wool and a traditional weave structure that contributes to their durability and definition. Many of the antique Heriz rugs in our collection are over a century old—still structurally sound, still visually striking.

Materials and Techniques

Each piece in this collection is a handwoven Persian rug, made using time-honored techniques passed down through generations. The wool is often dyed with plant-based pigments and hand-knotted over months or years, depending on scale. The result? A surface that tells a story—of craft, region, and rhythm.

Delivery and Care Information

Shipping

We offer insured UPS Ground shipping within the continental U.S. For oversized or highly valuable pieces, we may coordinate with specialty carriers to ensure your rug arrives safely. If you’re local to one of our showrooms, white-glove delivery may be available upon request.

Care and Maintenance

To ensure proper care, vacuum regularly using suction only—no rotating brushes. Rotate your rug every few months to distribute wear evenly. In case of spills, blot immediately with a clean, dry cloth. For deep cleaning or restoration, consult a professional familiar with Persian Heriz rugs and antique textiles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Serapi Rugs

What is a Serapi rug?
A Serapi rug is a rare, antique Persian rug woven in the Heriz region of northwest Iran during the late 19th to early 20th century. These rugs are admired for their balanced designs, open spacing, and softer color palettes. Compared to later Heriz rugs, Serapis tend to have a more refined weave and a calm, architectural presence.

Are Serapi rugs good quality?
Yes. Serapi rugs are among the most prized handwoven Persian rugs—not only for their aesthetic clarity but also for their durability. Many pieces over a century old still retain vibrant color and structural integrity, thanks to high-quality wool and expert craftsmanship.

What is the difference between Heriz and Serapi?
Both originate from the same region, but Serapi rugs are typically older, with finer detail, more spacious motifs, and subtler shifts in tone. Heriz rugs tend to be more graphic and densely patterned, with bolder contrast and a sturdier weave.

What are the most desirable Persian rugs?
That depends on your style preferences, but Serapi, Tabriz, and Isfahan rugs are widely regarded for their artistry and historical significance. Serapis, in particular, strike a rare balance between tribal character and sophisticated form.

Interested in designs that blend tradition and modernity? Explore our Transitional Rugs.

Antique Heriz Rugs

What are the characteristics of a Heriz rug?
Antique Heriz rugs are known for their bold, central medallions, strong geometric motifs, and richly layered colors—often including brick red, navy, ivory, and soft gold. Their wool, naturally dyed and high in copper content due to regional water, is especially strong, contributing to their lasting appeal.

Where are Heriz rugs from?
These rugs are woven in and around the village of Heris (Heriz) in northwest Iran, near Mount Sabalan. This area is known for producing durable, large-format rugs with strong tribal influence and distinct design language.

How do I know if my rug is valuable?
Clues to value include age, condition, wool quality, knot density, natural dyes, and the clarity of design. Originality and provenance also play a key role—rugs with well-preserved patterns and authentic regional markers tend to be more collectible.

Want more pieces with strong geometry and cultural depth? View our Tribal Rugs.