Senneh rugs, woven by the Kurdish people of the Senneh or Sandandaj in the west of Iran, are among the most highly regarded carpets in Persian rug history. Known for their intricate designs, fine quality, and exceptional craftsmanship, these rugs have earned a distinguished reputation in the world of Persian rugs. Let’s dive deeper into their history, craftsmanship, and design.

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History and Origin of Senneh Rugs

Senneh (also known as Sanandaj) is located in the Kurdistan province of western Iran, close to the border with Iraq. The region has long been a center for carpet weaving, with the craft becoming a significant part of the Kurdish cultural heritage. Notably, Senneh is one of the two main hubs for carpet weaving in Kurdistan, alongside Bijar, and it has earned its place as a star in the world of handwoven textiles.

The history of Senneh rugs dates back around 400 years, according to some experts. During the Safavid era, Senneh was the capital of Kurdistan, and the influence of this period is visible in the rugs woven in the region. These carpets were often commissioned by the head of the tribes as gifts or as part of ceremonial exchanges. The region’s carpets were not only admired locally but were also exported, helping to spread the fame of Senneh carpets internationally.

Over the years, however, the quality of Senneh rugs has experienced a decline, particularly with the advent of synthetic dyes. Despite this, Senneh rugs remain a cherished part of Kurdish art and culture, and they are still considered an essential souvenir of Kurdistan. The Persian Carpet Museum in Tehran houses examples of 19th-century Senneh rugs, underscoring the powerful weaving tradition of the region.

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Craftsmanship of Senneh Rugs

Senneh rugs are known for their fine knotting and durability. The weavers use the Persian (asymmetric) knot, which allows for intricate designs with a high knot density. Some Senneh rugs feature up to 1 million knots per square meter, making them among the finest handwoven carpets.

The wool used in Senneh rugs is strong and durable, often hand-spun by the weavers. The yarn is dyed using both natural and synthetic dyes, though natural dyes were traditionally preferred for their rich colors.

The weaving looms used in Senneh are vertical, much like those in other urban areas of Iran. However, in some rural areas, more traditional methods are still employed. The rug pile is short, and the weave is tight, contributing to the smooth texture of the rug.

Senneh rugs are typically made in smaller sizes, such as Pushti (small rugs), 1.5 x 1.5 meters, and larger sizes like 6-meter or 9-meter rugs. The weaving process is labor-intensive, requiring skill and patience to produce each piece.

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Designs and Patterns in Senneh Rugs

The designs in Senneh rugs are among the most intricate and beautiful of any Persian rug. The motifs are often inspired by nature and daily life, reflecting the rugged terrain and cultural traditions of the Kurdish people. Some common patterns include:

  • Bulbul Gol Mohammadi (Nightingale and Rose)
  • Gol Mirza Ali (Mirza Ali's flower)
  • Mahi Darham (Fish design)
  • Boteh Miri (Cypress Tree)
  • Herati (Diamond with floral patterns)
  • Pink Roses
  • Lachak and Toranj (Corner Medallion)
  • Boteh and Tree
  • Three Medallions
  • Jaghah Hasht Par (Eight-pointed star)
  • Gol Vakili (Vakili’s flower)
  • Gol o Bulbul (Rose and Nightingale)
  • Jaghah Chahar Par (Four-pointed star)
  • Kolah Farangi (European Hat)

The colors in Senneh rugs are vibrant and include shades like lacquer red, deep blues, yellows, greens, ivory, and browns. These colors are a reflection of the region’s natural environment and the daily lives of its people. The patterns often depict elements of nature, animals, and daily life, representing the deep connection between the Kurdish people and their land.

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