Wondering which are the most expensive rugs in the world? The world of rugs and carpets is a vast one, with millions of different types of patterns, designs, materials, sizes and threads. Some of the most typical materials are wool or other fibers such as cotton or silk, and they can be woven, needle felt, tufted or knotted, depending on the type.
If you’ve done any shopping for rugs yourself, then you probably know that rugs can be pretty expensive. Of course, not only does the materials from which it is made affect its price, but also its story or even its particular pattern. In some cases, some rugs are considered antiques, and have an artistic value.
Some of the most amazing rugs in the world can even add an important value to a property, should they be sold alongside it. Taking a look at our list on The Ten Most Expensive Homes in the World it wouldn’t be surprising to find one of these expensive rugs inside one of these impressive houses. Some mansions can reach upwards of $139 million, like the Updown Court located in Surrey, England.
But which carpets are among the most expensive ever sold? If you are planning on decorating your place, you should take a look at these beauties for inspiration, even if they’re a little out of your price range. Take a look at the list we have compiled a list featuring the ten most expensive rugs in the world.
No. 10 The Tabriz Carpet, Northwest Persia
Sold for: $68,500
Like many famous carpets, the Tabriz carpet is from northwest Persia, and its design is an example of traditional Mahi field patterns and colors. This carpet is in great condition, and has a turtle design along the border. With a balanced design and a nice weight, the rug was sold at Sotheby’s at a price of US$68,500.
Nine more masterpieces of rug craftsmanship are yet to come on our list of the most expensive rugs in the world.
No. 9 Fereghan Sarouk
Sold for: $74,500
An exquisite example of a Fereghan Sarouk, this Persian rug is one of the highest valued ones in existence. It features a symmetrical design with three medallions, and a border that is a nod to old Safavid-type borders. The Fereghan rug is among the favorites of many collectors.
No. 8 Portuguese Armorial
Sold for: $80,500
The Portuguese Armorial Carpet is a square-cut rug, decorated with a sophisticated and yet simple pattern. The rug is part of the collection of Doris Duke, one of the foremost collectors of rugs in the world.
No. 7 Mohtashem Kashan Carpet
Sold for: $92,500
The Mohtashem kashan carpets are among the finest types of Kashan carpets, and this particular one was created circa 1850. Its design features very nice colors, with typical Kashan patterns. Moreover, the rug is highly valued because of its premium craftsmanship and quality.
No. 6 Ziegler Mahal Carpet
Sold for: $98,500
The Ziegler Mahal Carpet is originally from central Persia, and is the 6th most expensive rug ever sold. It is a large-sized carpet, with an exquisite flower-patterned border and a soft color palette. Nevertheless, this rug has some condition issues, with some moth damage and holes, which were recently repaired.
No. 5 Isfahan Carpet
Sold for: $116,500
The Isfahan Carpet is one of the oldest examples of Safavid court’s art. This large carpet is almost intact and has a high decorative value, with vibrant colors and adorned with an unusual vinery design on its minor border, which makes it very special. Avid collector Doris Duke acquired this rug at Christie’s for a staggering price of US$116,500.
No. 4 Ushak Rug
Sold for: $158,500
This old rug was made circa 1600, and is in great condition considering its age. It has a colorful design, with good contrast and stunning designs and symbolism. Its patterns represent classical Western Anatolian weaving traditions, with the distinctive featuring of a saturated brick-red field and its double niche composition. The rug was sold at Christie’s for a very large sum, given its excellent color, condition and size.
No. 3 Tabriz Carpet
Sold for: $170,500
Originally from Persia, the Tabriz Carpet is one of the most expensive carpets in the world. Its pattern and colors are a great example of the Mahi tradition, and it has turtle shell design elements, with a medallion that is rare among its kind.
No. 2 Ziegler Mahal Carpet
Sold for: $182,500
The Ziegler Mahal Carpet is the second most expensive in the world. The rug has a large print scale, with different colors such as terra cotta and light blue. It is originally from central Persia, and is in excellent condition.
No. 1 Silk Isfahan Rug
Sold for: $4,450,000
The most expensive rug today is the Silk Isfahan Rug, from Persia. This rug, made around 1600, has an approximate size of 231 cm x 170 cm. It is made of high quality pure silk, with great knot density and is decorated with numerous colors. It was sold in 2008 for the amazing sum of almost four and a half million dollars.