The Characteristics of Kazak Rugs

At Rug Source, we love sharing the nuanced details and differences between different rug families. One of the lesser-known classifications is Kazak rugs. These are somewhat of a blended rug category, falling under the broader Oriental rug grouping. So, what are the main characteristics of a Kazak rug?

Before we answer that, let’s look at what makes a rug Kazak in the first place.

What is a Kazak rug?

Before we look at the characteristics of a Kazak rug, we first want to answer a simple question: What is a Kazak rug?

First, Kazak rugs fall into the larger category of Oriental rugs. Kazak rugs get their name from the Caucasus region, spreading across several modern-day countries. Those include Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia. We’ll briefly discuss the characteristics of a Kazak rug; they share similar features with other rug families, such as Persian and Turkish.

Today, most Kazak rugs are made in Afghanistan. Weavers continue the traditions, including colors and design, based on where they came from and the unique characteristics of where they live now in the Caucasus region.

Alternative Names for a Kazak Rug

As with other rug categories, Kazak rugs are sometimes referred to by other naming conventions. You may see references to Karachop and Karachov as alternative names for Kazakh rugs. So, with this in mind, what are the main characteristics of a Kazak rug?

The Main Characteristics of a Kazak Rug

There are many subclasses of Kazak rugs. These individual variations are generally based on the region where the rug was weaved. They include:

• Bordjalou
• Sewan
• Karachopf
• Fachralo
• Lambalo
• Pinwheel
• Shikli
• Shulaver
• Star

In another blog, we talked about Bohemian decor and how it conveys an “anything goes” mentality. While this isn’t a perfect analogy, it may be fair to consider Kazak rugs as a melting pot of different styles and motifs. 

The subclasses themselves have distinguishing features, yes. But as an overall category, the characteristics of Kazak rugs often include:

• Motifs originating from Persia
• A heavy influence of geometric patterns common to Turkish rugs
• Tribal designs from other Oriental rug families
• Floral designs, evocative of Russian handmade rugs.

In terms of colors, you’ll find a wide range of them, including black, white, gray, and red dyes, which are relatively common. In addition, other options, such as indigo, teal, and ivory, are not unheard of.

The best place to buy Kazak rugs is Rug Source!

We carry a wide range of rugs, including both the broader Oriental rug grouping as well as the more specific Kazak rug family. There are many great ways to use these in your home, from placing them in your dining or living room to a formal office to under your bed and beyond. If you’re in the market for a unique rug, we carry an unrivaled selection for you to choose from.

Visit our online inventory of Oriental rugs here and Kazak rugs here, or stop by our showroom at 7215 Smith Corners Blvd in Charlotte to see them in person today!