Vintage Persian Bakhtiari Rug Runner — 1950s | 3'6" x 12'5"

The Behruz is structured around a repeating single-column center medallion, its interior filled with an agricultural design of interconnected seed motifs—a symbolic nod to growth and cultivation. The surrounding field is layered with serrated leaves and boteh relief, checkered floral bouquets, and pinwheel design elements, all animated by natural abrash across the surface. For more on boteh and medallion motifs, see our guide to common rug motifs.

The palette is rich and varied: brick red, sky blue, dark navy blue, madder root red, bronze, olive green, dusty blush, and dusty rose. Explore more Bakhtiari pieces in our guide to the best rug styles for collectors.

At 3'6" x 12'5", the Behruz is purpose-built for hallways and long entryways, where its repeating medallion column can unfold across the full length of the space.

The Bakhtiari are a Persian tribal confederation historically based in the Zagros Mountains of western Iran, known for garden and medallion-format carpets rendered with confident, symbolic drawing. Agricultural motifs like the seed-filled medallions seen here reflect the tribe's connection to cultivation and the land, a recurring theme throughout Bakhtiari weaving.

Woven circa the 1950s, the Behruz reflects this Bakhtiari tradition in a long runner format. Browse more pieces from this tradition in our Bakhtiari collection.

Behruz is an alternate transcription of Persian Behrouz, meaning "fortunate, prosperous," from beh meaning "good, excellent" and rūz meaning "day."

The name reflects the rug's agricultural seed motifs and their symbolic promise of a good harvest—prosperity woven directly into the pattern itself.

Behruz captures the Bakhtiari tradition at its most hopeful: symbolic, richly colored, and rooted in the land.

• Primary material: Natural wool
• Construction: Hand-knotted
• Dye method: Traditional dyes with abrash
• Foundation: Traditional woven foundation
• Condition: Vintage condition with even, short pile

Even, short pile height across the entire piece, consistent with age and use.

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

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

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

Use a quality non-slip runner pad, especially important for hallway placement.

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 Bakhtiari weavings like the Behruz are unique in drawing, dye variation, and wear pattern.

What does the seed medallion motif mean?
An agricultural motif symbolizing growth and cultivation, tied to the Bakhtiari tribe's historical connection to the land. See our motif guide for more.

Is it ready for use?
Yes. It has been professionally cleaned and inspected prior to offering.