The village of Khuniq is part of the Goyjeh-Bel Rural District in the central district of Ahar County, located about five kilometres south of Ahar, in NW Persia. Because it lies within the wider Goravan rug-weaving region of Azerbaijan province, the village has long been an important centre of handknotted rug production.
Its proximity to Ahar has influenced the weaving techniques used in Khuniq rugs, while their designs and motifs show a closer connection to the Heriz tradition.
This rug features a traditional corner-and-medallion composition with a design closely resembling the Tajeri pattern of Heriz. It was woven with local materials, traditionally dyed, and woven with a fully depressed weave using symmetrical knots.
The pendant motifs extending from the central medallion are abstract representations of the tree of life, surrounded by many other symbolic forms, including motifs associated with Ana, the blessing of water, the North Star, and more.
A close and thoughtful reading of the design reveals even more of the hidden visual codes woven into the rug. One example is an abstract cross motif, skillfully incorporated into part of the corner design.
The border is decorated with eight-petalled flowers flanked by palm-like leaves. Locally, this border motif is known as Baligh-Shamama, meaning “fish and melon.”
The remarkable level of miniature detailing throughout the design is one of the local traditions and defining characteristics of Khuniq rugs. These intricate details reflect the weavers’ deep connection to nature and their extraordinary creativity, with many of the smaller motifs improvised directly during the weaving process.
Based on the dyes and the overall composition of the design, this rug is approximately 70 years old.
Origin: Khuniq, Ahar, Heriz region, NW Persia
Materials: Hand knotted hand-spun & vegetable-dyed wool pile on cotton foundation
Age: Circa 1950s
Size: 9' 10" x 12' 11" (300 x 393 cm)
Thickness: 9 mm
Condition: Excellent condition with one tiny, expertly executed restoration that is nearly impossible to detect. Professionally washed and cleaned, making it perfect for everyday use and enjoyment for years to come.
Note: Photos were taken in two different lighting settings. Darker ones in a photography studio with a professional camera, and lighter ones with an iPhone in our studio in Oakville.
