Persian carpet Qom silk 

Pure silk 

Size:90×60

Gonbad design 

Blue & black

What Is a Persian Gonbad Design Rug?

The word “Gonbad” translates from Farsi into “dome” in English. It refers to the ornate domes that are found in Mosques throughout the world. Therefore, Persian Gonbad rugs are those carpets that mimic the design and architecture of a mosque dome. The gonbad design features ornate concentric circles that radiate from a central, around the central rug medallion. The field of the rug is often filled with intricate floral patterns in fine detail.

Persian Gonbad Rugs and Mosque Domes by Nazmiyal Antique Rugs

Persian Gonbad Rugs and Mosque Domes

In many Persian Gonbad rugs, you can seethe visual representation of what would be columns and mihrab, or Islamic prayer niches, surrounding the dome. These artistic rugs are meant to give the visual representation of looking up at the ceiling of a mosque dome. One of the elements that stands out about this specific Persian rug design pattern is the use of perspective. Many of them do not appear to be flat surfaces, giving a feeling of distance as you move toward the center of the rug. They mimic the arches of the circular dome, creating a dimensional effect.

 

Gonbad rugs are often in brilliant colors and have layers of intricate designs, just like the architectural feature that they represent. You can find them made of wool, silk, and a blend of these two fibers. The shimmer of silk gives them a sublime quality and creates a glow in the room as it catches the light. One technique that you will find in gonbad rugs is the use of wool for a majority of the design and using bright white silk to define certain features of the motif to make them stand out. Rugs of this design are woven with great care, and you will often find them with metallic threads throughout.

 

Persian rugs are some of the most beautiful in the world. They come in a range of colors and variety of patterns that are perfect for any decor. One of the most striking patterns are those rugs that boast a design that is referred to as “Gonbad”. These are mesmerizing and show a masterful level of artistry. They are one of the rarer designs, and if you have the opportunity to see one in person, you will understand why they are some of the most prized in the world.