Kerman province in southeastern Iran has been producing hand-knotted carpets of exceptional quality since at least the 17th century, and the rugs it produces - known variously as Kirman, Kerman, or Kirman Persian rugs - occupy a distinctive and beloved place in the Persian rug world. Where Kashan and Tabriz are associated with formal medallion compositions and rich jewel-tone palettes, Kirman rugs are celebrated for something different - an open, airy elegance, a palette of soft pastels and warm ivories, and a floral design vocabulary of extraordinary delicacy and variety.
The classic Kirman format features an ivory or cream ground with an all-over or medallion floral design in soft rose, pale blue, warm green, and gold. The flowers are drawn with a naturalistic softness that distinguishes Kirman from the more stylized floral traditions of other Persian cities. Roses, peonies, irises, and flowering vines fill the field with a profusion that suggests a garden in full bloom. The overall effect is one of the most accessible and universally appealing in the entire Persian rug tradition - beautiful, warm, and gentle rather than imposing or formal.
Kirman rugs have been particularly popular with Western buyers since the late 19th century precisely because their soft palettes and naturalistic floral designs translate easily into Western interior contexts. They work with traditional, transitional, and even contemporary interiors more readily than the more formal city rug traditions, and the soft ivory grounds coordinate with a wider range of wall colors and furnishing styles than the rich reds and navies of Kashan or Bokhara production.
Every Kirman rug in our collection is hand-knotted using quality wool pile on cotton foundations. For the full history and buying guide see our post on Kirman rugs. Explore related Persian styles in our Persian rugs, Kashan rugs, and Oriental rugs collections. Shop by size in our 5x8, 8x10, and 9x12 collections. Free worldwide shipping on every order.
