Introduction to Common Rug Motifs
Explore the symbolic stories woven into the world’s most enduring rug patterns.
Why Rug Motifs Matter
For many rug lovers, the beauty of a hand-knotted carpet is in its texture, colour, or craftsmanship. But for us — and perhaps now for you — the real magic lies in the motifs.
Motifs are more than just decorative flourishes. They’re clues. Clues to a rug’s origin, its weaver’s influences, and the stories passed from one generation to the next. From flowers and flames to mythical creatures and geometric emblems, the same core motifs appear across weaving regions — but each one is shaped by local tradition, skill, and belief.
This guide introduces some of the most common rug motifs, where they come from, and what they might mean.
The Herati: The Timeless Fish
History & Symbolism
Perhaps the most recognisable of all motifs, the Herati design emerged from Herat, a cultural centre on the Silk Road in modern-day Afghanistan. A strategic town during the Timurid and Safavid dynasties, Herat was a hotspot for artistic production — and the birthplace (or at least the best-known home) of this enduring motif.
What it Looks Like
The Herati typically features a central rosette within a diamond, flanked by lancet-shaped acanthus leaves (which look like fish to some, hence the Farsi nickname “Mahi”).
Where You’ll Find It
Mahi Tabriz rugs: soft-toned, high-knot-count masterpieces with refined Herati patterns
Bijar rugs: chunkier, more spontaneous Herati, often with endearing imperfections
Ferahan rugs: 19th–20th century Iranian classics with a looser, more charming Herati execution
The Boteh: The Flame, the Parrot, the Pine Cone
Origins & Interpretations
The Boteh — often seen as a bush, leaf cluster, flame, or even a parrot’s head — is one of the most adapted motifs in rug history. Known as “buta” in Azerbaijani and “badem” in Turkish, it has roots in Persian, Indian, and Central Asian weaving cultures.
Some scholars link it to the Zoroastrian flame, others to fertility or protection symbols. Its exact meaning depends on the weaver, region, and era.
Where You’ll See It
Indian weavings under Mughal rule
Sassanid Persian art (notably the mythical Simorgh)
Silk garments from 6th–8th century Egypt
Modern paisley patterns across fashion and décor
The Boteh’s beauty lies in its mystery — and in the thousands of weavers who’ve adapted it over time.
The Gül: Tribal Identity Woven in Wool
What is a Gül?
Often octagonal, the Gül is a medallion-like symbol found throughout Turkmen and Central Asian rugs. It’s symmetrical, structured, and deeply tied to tribal identity — like a woven coat of arms.
Notable Examples
Tekke Gül: With its directional arrows and precise repeat, it instantly signals a Tekke main carpet.
Gulli Gül: Featuring tre-foils and stars, especially in Ersari rugs.
Tauk Noska Gül: Animal-inspired and named for a “chicken amulet”, found in Chaudor and Yomud pieces.
Memling Gül: Made famous in 15th-century European paintings by Hans Memling, this hooked medallion can be found in Anatolian designs to this day.
The Mina Khani: A Floral Lattice
Pattern & Placement
This gentle, looping lattice of palmettes and rosettes is both elegant and deeply traditional. It’s often arranged in hexagonal or circular grids and adapted with either geometric or floral flourishes.
Where You’ll See It
Varamin workshop rugs, where the design is used so often it’s become a namesake
Balouch and Luri tribal weavings, especially in Western Iran and Eastern Afghanistan
The Shah Abbasi: Palace-Level Precision
Courtly Origins
Named after Shah Abbas I of the Safavid dynasty — who revolutionised Persian weaving by establishing royal workshops — this motif is a symbol of refinement. The Shah Abbasi design features large, stylised palmettes linked by elegant arabesques, perfect for high-knot-count city rugs.
Key Traits
Often woven in Isfahan, Kashan, Tabriz, and Kerman
Detailed floral sprays, used in borders or central medallions
A hallmark of Safavid luxury weaving, still replicated today in Indian, Chinese, and Pakistani rugs
Why Motifs Still Matter Today
Understanding motifs helps you read your rug like a book — each detail, a paragraph in its life story. Whether you’re buying a new piece, preserving an heirloom, or simply admiring the artistry beneath your feet, these common motifs give you a richer connection to the culture and creativity behind your rug.
If you’re ever curious about the origins or symbolism in your own rug, we’re always happy to offer insights — just send us a photo or get in touch.
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