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Discover the Profound and Timeless Elegance of the Mir Design Rug
Classic. Balanced. Symbolic.
The Mir design rug is a cornerstone of Persian weaving heritage, celebrated by collectors and interior designers for its subtle sophistication and enduring charm. Rooted in centuries of craftsmanship and culture, the Mir rug exemplifies artistry, structure, and spiritual symbolism.
The Mir design traces its origins to Seraband (also spelled Saraband or Sarband), a weaving district located southwest of Arak (formerly Sultanabad) in central western Iran. The term Mir-i Boteh denotes its signature pattern—multiple rows of small, teardrop-shaped motifs known as boteh.
These botehs are typically arranged diagonally, forming a visually rhythmic and meditative field. The pattern is historically linked with Mir Seraband and Sarouk Mir, designations used for high-quality rugs made with asymmetric knots, fine wool, and cotton foundations with blue wefts. These rugs gained popularity across Europe and North America during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
The boteh motif, central to the Mir design, is a Persian icon often interpreted as a seed, flame, or stylized cypress tree. It carries spiritual significance rooted in Zoroastrian symbolism, where it represents eternal life, rebirth, and continuity.
Field Design: Mir rugs typically feature an all-over boteh pattern without a central medallion, maintaining visual consistency.
Borders: Framed by geometric floral or vine motifs, sometimes including the stylized shekeri border, a hallmark of Seraband rugs.
Color Palette: Rust red, deep navy, ivory, olive, and earth tones.
Materials: High-quality wool with occasional silk accents.
Construction: Hand-knotted with medium to fine knot densities, ensuring durability and design clarity.
The region of Arak, particularly during the late 19th century, became a global center of rug production. A key contributor to this was Ziegler & Co., a British firm that opened a factory in Sultanabad (modern-day Arak) in 1883. Collaborating with local weavers, Ziegler helped refine and standardize Persian rug designs—including those with the Mir-i Boteh pattern—to appeal to Western markets. They introduced vagirehs, or sample design mats, which allowed weavers to replicate motifs like the diagonal boteh layout with consistency and precision.
In contemporary design, the Mir rug's timeless appeal lies in its adaptability. Whether placed in a maximalist interior with bold layering or in a minimalist space seeking subtle sophistication, the Mir rug delivers harmony and soul. Its symbolic and historical significance makes it more than a decorative piece—it is a legacy woven into fabric.
At Indo Designer Rugs, we honor the rich heritage of Mir rugs with a curated collection crafted from premium wool and natural silk. Every piece is hand-knotted with intention and care, designed to bring lasting beauty and meaning into your home.
P.S. Explore the full Mir collection and experience a piece of living history!
