Antique hand-knotted Persian Mahal rugs are like a fine wine - they get better with age. These rugs are known for their durability, intricate designs, and vibrant colors that only become richer and more beautiful as the years go by.
Mahal rugs are hand-knotted Persian rugs made in the region known as Mahallat, which is outside of Arak, the capital city of the province of Arak (Markazi), located in central Northwestern Iran. The history of this region is very rich, and its rug weaving industry dates back many centuries. The name "Mahal" derives from the village known as Mahallat in the Arak region. These rugs have a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century when they were initially made for export to England and France. The secret to their popularity lies in their unique designs and high-quality craftsmanship, which sets them apart from other Persian rugs.
Persian Mahals are primarily produced on the family level, making use of materials and textures that are a result of the expanding cottage industry. This means that each rug is made with the utmost care and attention to detail, resulting in a product that is both beautiful and durable. They are hand-knotted using a combination of wool and cotton, which gives them a soft texture. They are woven with a symmetrical knot, which gives them a smooth surface and allows for intricate designs to be woven into the rug. These rugs can feature unique patterns, such as the diamond lattice, boteh (paisley), and floral motifs. It can take years to produce a single hand-knotted Persian Mahal rug due to the labor-intensive process of making it. They are considered a luxury item and have an investment value as they are becoming rarer and therefore, even more valuable.
A Persian Mahal is a piece of history that you can walk on, a conversation starter that will impress your guests, and a work of art that will only get better with age. Just like a fine wine, these rugs are worth the investment and will only become more valuable with time!