Nain rugs: among the finest Persian weaves

Nain rugs are among the most beautiful rugs in the world and rank, alongside those from Isfahan, as the most delicate of all Persian rugs.

They come from what is now western Iran, from the oasis and desert city of Na'in, and have been knotted by hand in fine detail since antiquity.

There can hardly be anyone who has never seen a Nain.

A question of category

Because of its particular knotting technique, the Nain is graded into classes of its own: 4La, 6La, 9La and 12La. 

4La represents the most elaborate and highest-quality rugs, with a knot density of more than one million knots – per square metre. They are very rare today and are barely made any more. That said, the other classes are no less beautiful and no less good. Quite the opposite.

6La rugs have a knot density of roughly 850,000 to 1,000,000 knots per square metre, which gives them a fine and detailed execution. They are high in quality and offer excellent value for money. 9La rugs, with a knot density of around 650,000 to 850,000 knots per square metre, are a little coarser but still robust and elegant, which makes them particularly suited to everyday use. The 12La versions have the lowest knot density, at about 450,000 to 650,000 knots per square metre, yet still convince through their craftsmanship and the characteristic Nain style, unmistakable in every class.

The pattern makes it

The Nain is recognisable not only by its unusually fine knotting but also by its pattern. Traditionally it shows central medallions surrounded by floral motifs, stylised vases, fine tendril patterns and arabesques. You can identify it by its characteristically restrained, elegant colour palette, dominated by various shades of beige, ivory and brown, often joined by blue and red as counterpoints.

Classic materials

Anyone looking for a particularly fine and valuable Nain should pay attention to the material. The highest quality is found in rugs made of silk, which is also why they cost more than examples in pure wool.

New wool is popular because it works and knots well, is easy to care for, robust and long-lasting. Wool is also considered versatile, sustainable, heat-retaining, hard-wearing and pleasantly soft.

By long tradition, only plant-based or mineral dyes are used to colour the rugs.

In shape

Traditionally Nain rugs were knotted in a rectangular shape, which remains the most common and most popular to this day. It allows the detailed designs and medallions to show at their best and, in a large format, is ideal for formal rooms such as living rooms or reception halls. A Nain is now also made in round, oval and, of course, square shapes, to allow more flexibility in designing and furnishing living spaces.

New places of origin

Although Nains originally come from Na'in in Iran, they are now only rarely made there. Today they come mostly from other regions of Iran, such as Mashhad or Kashmar, and are designed in a somewhat more modern style. That does not make them any less valuable. It is only worth being sceptical about "Made in China" products. Reputable dealers generally sell goods whose authenticity has been checked by experts, including a certificate of authenticity.

All in all

Nain rugs are prized for their quality, their elegant design and their fine materials, and not only by dedicated collectors. They are a lasting investment in craftsmanship rather than a passing purchase. If you are looking for a rug that stands for style and longevity, a Nain is an excellent choice.