What Is a Bakhshayesh Rug?

Every major rug family has its smaller, more specialized stylings. Persian rugs are no different. And while we’ve covered some of them in the past, a lesser-known style is a Bakhshayesh rug. So what is it, exactly?

Let’s look at some of the details that help to make the Bakhshayesh rug family a class unto their own.

What’s in a name?

The first detail we wanted to clarify was the name Bakhshayesh itself. Within Turkish rugs, there is the popular Oushak rug subcategory. These rugs hail from Uşak within Turkey and sometimes are called such.

Likewise, you’ll find several competing spelling variations for Bakhshayesh rugs. Those are:

• Bakshish
• Bakshaish
• Bakhshayesh

All three are correct. The second of those names is the city name where they were made, while the latter is the style of rug. 

The Origins of Bakhshayesh Rugs

Bakhshayesh rugs hail from Bakshaish, Iran. This small village is approximately 60 miles east of Tabriz and sits along the banks of the Talke Run River. Bakhshayesh rugs are somewhat of an older rug styling. Within our inventory, for example, no Bakhshayesh rug is younger than 30 years — clearly making them a vintage rug option. Indeed, we carry several pre-1900 options, which is somewhat of a rarity in our industry.

The Designs and Styling of Bakhshayesh Rugs

From the viewpoint of rug enthusiasts and collectors, some consider Bakhshayesh rugs to be the prime example of the larger Persian rug family. You can see the greater Persian influence in the design patterns, such as large geometric shapes. However, you’ll also see smaller shapes scattered throughout the rug’s surface such as floral shapes or those inspired by the culture of the people.

Another interesting detail of Bakhshayesh rugs is that they often incorporate camel’s hair into the materials. Whereas silk, cotton, and wool are the three most common handmade rug materials, this fourth option helps to set Bakhshayesh rugs apart from their larger brethren.

The Age Range of Bakhshayesh Rugs

As previously mentioned, most Bakhshayesh rugs are relatively old. The majority of our inventory is well over 100 years of age, with several even predating the 1890s. Of course, as we only procure one-of-a-kind options, by the time you read this those options may have been scooped up. Nevertheless, it’s a great example of how this unique rug category stands apart from similar stylings.

Looking for a Bakhshayesh rug? Rug Source can help!

If you’re looking for a rare antique rug with distinctive patterns and motifs, consider a Bakhshayesh rug for your home. This style of Persian rug often comes in palace-sized configurations, but can sometimes be found in small sizes as well.

Regardless of your needs, the team at Rug Source can help. Visit our showroom to see our full range of Bakhshayesh rugs or browse our online sections here. And if you’re interested in other styles of Persian rugs, we have you covered here as well!