Vintage Persian Heriz Carpet — 1930s | 9'2" x 12'8"

The Adel's starburst center medallion is defined by outwardly directed interior palmettes and serrated leaves, sitting atop a field of interconnected vines and blossoms. For more on medallion and palmette motifs, see our guide to common rug motifs.

The main border combines a partial Herati pattern with a turtle samovar design, framing the field with layered detail. The palette is soft and soothing throughout: ivory, beige, antique ivory, sand, platinum, pale coffee brown, and dusty sandalwood—rendered in a finer weave than typical for a piece of this type and age. Explore more Heriz pieces in our guide to the best rug styles for collectors.

At 9'2" x 12'8", the Adel is a grand, room-size piece, ideal for formal living rooms and dining rooms where its soft palette and fine weave can be fully appreciated.

Heriz rugs originate from the villages surrounding the town of Heriz in northwest Persia, celebrated for bold, angular medallion drawing and a sturdy, durable weave. While Heriz is often associated with deep, saturated brick-red palettes, softer and more finely woven examples like this one represent a more refined side of the tradition.

Woven circa the 1930s, the Adel reflects this finer, more delicate approach to Heriz weaving. Browse more pieces from this tradition in our Heriz collection.

Adel is the Persian form of Adil, meaning "fair" or "just," and is also an alternate transcription of the Arabic name.

The name reflects the rug's balanced, harmonious composition—soft, evenly distributed color and a finely woven structure that feels measured and considered rather than bold or heavy-handed.

Adel captures the Heriz tradition at its most refined: soft-toned, finely woven, and quietly elegant.

• Primary material: Natural wool
• Construction: Hand-knotted, finer weave for type and age
• Dye method: Traditional dyes
• Foundation: Traditional woven foundation
• Condition: Vintage condition with even wear

Even wear is present across the surface to knot heads, with faint foundation showing through consistent with age.

Most original side cord selvages are intact or have been sympathetically restored. Sides and ends are fully secured.

One end measures 9', while the opposing end measures 9'2". This variation is within normal margins for hand-knotted rugs of this type, age, and size.

Recently professionally cleaned and ready for immediate in-home use.

Vacuum gently using suction only. Avoid rotating brushes or beater bars.

Use a quality rug pad to reduce movement and provide support.

Rotate periodically to encourage even wear. For deep cleaning, consult a professional experienced with vintage Persian carpets.

Is this rug one of a kind?
Yes. Vintage Heriz weavings like the Adel are unique in drawing, dye variation, and wear pattern.

What makes this Heriz finer than typical?
This piece has a tighter, more delicate knot structure than is typical for Heriz rugs of its era, resulting in more refined detail and a softer overall hand.

Why do the two ends measure differently?
A 2" variation between ends is normal for hand-knotted rugs of this age and size, and does not affect the rug's use or lay-flat quality.