Dazzling Medallion Design Persian Serapi Heriz Rug, Country of Origin / Rug Type: Antique Persian Rugs, Circa Date: 1880 – This spectacular Serapi Heriz carpet combines color and design in a way that creates a striking display. Heriz is a traditional carpet weaving center. It is known for medallion designs with crisp geometric elements that stand out against the background. They are often set against a rich blue, rust, or red field. This one uses blu, tan, cobalt and midnight beige to create the larger structure of the design.

The carpet design consists of layers that define the areas of the design and support the central medallion design. These areas are them defined by progressively smaller floral designs to fill the background. This formal design gives it a formal feel, yet the colors and geometric style of the elements give is a uniquely tribal feel, too.

Serapis have the formal medallion design structure of the carpets of Heriz, but they are also similar to the tribal rugs of the Caucasus Mountains. This gives them a unique place for collectors and makes them versatile for interior design. They work well in a formal or informal room.

Within the group of carpets produced in Heriz, Serapi carpets are known for their high-quality and beautiful designs. They originate from the village of Serab, and their rugs are considered to characteristically high-quality, so much so that the term Serapi is sometimes used as a quality designation in other parts of the world. One can see from this example why this is the case. Serapi carpets have more tightly packed knots and are denser than the broader category of Heriz carpets.