Nain carpet

Definition

Very finely knotted city carpets from Nain, recognisable by ivory and blue palettes with silk highlights.

History

Nain was a centre of fine wool weaving (for cloaks) before carpet weaving expanded in the 20th century, and it quickly became known for very fine rugs.

Dates and attributions here summarise common positions in the literature and are under editorial review; they are not definitive.

Technique

Fine asymmetrical knots, often described by the number of warp threads per knot (for example '6la' or '9la'), with silk used to outline designs.

Collecting and identification

Quality grades are often stated as 'la' numbers; ask the seller to explain them. Look for crisp outlines and even clipping.

This guidance is educational only and is not an authentication or valuation service.

Photographs

No photograph is shown yet: we have not found a clean, openly licensed image without watermarks. We would rather show none than a questionable one.

Gallery

Images are representative examples, not evidence for the sample marketplace records. Their sources and permission status are listed in the photography credits.

Marketplace

No objects of this craft are currently listed.

Related knowledge

Sources & references

• Book: Wulff, H. E. The Traditional Crafts of Persia. MIT Press, 1966.
• Institution: Encyclopaedia Iranica, relevant entries (online edition, accessed 2026-09-24).

Where origins, dates or symbolism are contested, this entry states the competing readings rather than choosing between them. Editorial analysis is not presented as documented fact.