TABRIZ

The city of Tabriz is situated 600 km west of Tehran and is one of the largest cities in Iran and also the capital of the province of Azerbaijan. The population comprising of the Azaris, who are the largest ethnic minority in Iran and speak the Turkish dialect. The city is old and for centuries has been a very important trading place and border station. Known attractions are the Blue Mosque and the great bazaar.

The manufacturing of rugs today is extensive and the quality varies from excellent handicrafts to simple and cheap bazaar qualities. A good Tabriz has a short and rough pile. The patterns can consist of a centrally placed medallion surrounded by arabesques, weeping willows and cypresses. Another popular motif is the four seasons which describe the life of the Persian farmer during spring, summer, autumn and winter.