Malayer Rugs – Antique rugs from the Malayer region embody an angular northwestern style that is best defined by its diversity in style and color. Malayer is a city and an eponymous county located within the province of Hamadan. It is located between Arak and the city of Hamadan. Local weavers produced a spectacular array of traditional patterns ranging from dense allover motifs to lozenge-shaped Allover that are placed over chic monochromatic grounds. Although angular motifs are favored, some of the finer Herati patterns feature subtle curvilinear details. One of the charming constants of antique Malayer rugs is the importance placed on creating richly detailed borders that rival the spectacular patterns featured within the field. Weavers in Malayer consistently put great effort into creating exquisite borders.

Regional weavers generally produced smaller area rugs and runners although larger room-sized rugs were created on commission. The colors and patterns of antique Malayer rugs are rich and varied. Tiny boteh motifs are often used to create tremendous allover patterns. However, large-scale arabesques with curvilinear vinescrolls are sometimes found. Today is an excellent time to invest in antique Malayer rugs because they are just now gaining the popularity and recognition they deserve.

Antique rugs from the Malayer region constitute an important and distinctive group of Persian weavings. Technically they stand between those made in nearby Senneh and Hamadan. They were produced in a range of medallion and allover designs which, although they come from classical Persian sources, tend to be somewhat abstract or geometricized in their rendering. Sometimes Malayer carpet designs can utilize small-scale and fine forms like the Herati pattern, but they can also combine such features with larger composition schemes and the use of open, empty space. Their coloration is generally soft but varied. Malayer rugs have a quiet formality and reserve that makes them excellent decorative pieces for elegant settings.