Ziegler / Mahal-Style Carpet

Persian Mahal and Sultanabad carpets originated in the Arak region of northwestern Iran during the late 19th century and quickly became some of the most admired village rugs in the Persian tradition. Known for their large-scale, open designs, bold yet balanced motifs, and harmonious color palettes, these rugs offered a refreshing alternative to more densely patterned court carpets. Their spacious compositions and refined simplicity made them especially appealing to Western collectors and interior designers.

A defining chapter in this tradition came with the involvement of Ziegler & Co., whose collaboration with Persian workshops helped shape the classic Sultanabad and Mahal aesthetic for European and American markets. The resulting carpets—often referred to today as Ziegler rugs—are celebrated for their softened palettes, generous proportions, and timeless versatility.

Our Ziegler-style rug is a modern hand-knotted interpretation woven in northern Afghanistan, where skilled artisans continue this historic design language using traditional village techniques. While inspired by Persian Mahal and Sultanabad prototypes, the rug reflects the warmth, individuality, and authenticity of Afghan craftsmanship.

The rug is woven from high-mountain wool sourced from sheep raised at elevations above 1,000 meters, where cooler climates encourage the development of fleece naturally rich in lanolin. This lanolin gives the wool durability, resilience, and a gentle natural sheen, allowing the rug to age gracefully under everyday use. The open allover design, softened geometry, and balanced colors echo the spirit of classic Ziegler and Mahal carpets while remaining well suited to contemporary interiors.

Entirely hand-knotted, each piece carries subtle variations that reflect the weaver’s hand. More than a decorative element, this Afghan-woven Ziegler-style rug represents a living continuation of a beloved Persian tradition—reinterpreted with care, integrity, and enduring beauty.