Understanding Persian Rug Symbols

Do the symbols or motifs in Persian rugs have any special meanings? Throughout the history of Oriental Rugs cultural and religious beliefs influenced the artistic motifs used in rug design. Rugs and weaving played an important roll in the life of nomadic and herding peoples. Particular patterns, symbols and colors were chosen for their belief oriented life-protecting and life-enhancing attributes. In the ancient Orient, for example, specific colors were chosen to activate a particular spiritual sensation in one's life, or to alleviate symptoms of disease, or to assist in one's living in harmony with nature. Here's a small directory of what certain symbols have meant throughout history.

Meaning of Various Symbols & Motifs

Camel Wealth, Prosperity

Man Depiction of weaver in rug

Chicken, Rooster Protection from evil eye

Dragon Power

Snake Guardian, Wisdom

Bird Faith, Fertility

Eagle Power

Duck, Swan Marital Fertility, Enchantment

Parrot Escaping from danger, Protection

Peacock Immortality

Dog Protection, Trust, Defense

Paradise Bird Paradise

Tree of Life Direct path from Earth to Heaven

Iris Religious Liberty

Lily Purity, Spirituality

Lotus Rebirth, Immortality

Peony Power

Blossom Youth, Spring, Newly Wed

Rose White-Innocence Red-Passion General-Mystery

Tulip Prosperity

Cypress Serenity, Rebirth

Leaf Endless Regeneration

Pomegranate Fertility

Hyacinth Regeneration

Amulet Thwarts Evil Eye

Boteh Flame, Universe

Ewer, Jug Purification

Comb Cleanliness

Cross Faith

Diamond Signifies Women Two diamonds attached together represent a man and women

Hand Prayer Rug

Herati Water Garden, Fish-Mahi

Mihrab Gateway to Paradise

Numbers Signify Dates and Times

Star Spirituality, Good Luck
 

Meaning of Various Colors