Persian Rugs by Size — Traditional Names and Choosing by Room

When I visited Qum's workshop, I heard a craftsman ask, "How many zar is this?" referring to the length of the thread. "Zar" is a traditional unit based on the length of an arm, approximately 104 cm. The size designations for Persian carpets are also named starting from this "zar." In Japan, terms like "doormat" or "living room size" are common, but locally, each size has its own unique name, such as "galiche," "pardeh," or "ghali."

Each designation has traditional uses and meanings, and knowing them broadens your perspective when choosing a rug. Traditional sizing also provides good clues for considering how to use them in Japanese living spaces. Here, I will introduce eight representative designations in order, followed by how to choose a rug for each room, and then discuss "fringes," which are often overlooked in size descriptions.

ZirTeleponi — approx. 30×45cm

The meaning is "under the telephone." This is the smallest size category, formerly used as a mat under telephones. Nowadays, it's often used under vases or ornaments, as a small decorative mat in an entryway, or framed and displayed on a wall. The price range is relatively accessible, making it a suitable size for those who want to experience the brilliance of a silk rug in their daily lives.

Poshti — approx. 60×90cm

Meaning "cushion for a backrest." In Japanese living spaces, this size is overwhelmingly popular as an entryway mat. Simply placing it in the first space that welcomes guests changes the impression of the entire house. It also works well as an accent in personal spaces, such as at the foot of a single-seater sofa, in front of a dresser, or next to a bed.

We have received several comments from customers who use them as entryway mats, saying things like, "I no longer worry about dust and dirt on the entryway mat," and "Because it's tightly woven, it doesn't attract fine dust, there's no static electricity, and a vacuum cleaner is sufficient." Silk is tightly woven, so it has the unexpected practicality of not picking up fine dust in the entryway. When I first heard this, it was a discovery taught to me by a customer who had initially thought, "Silk in the entryway?"

Zaarocharak — approx. 80×120cm

The etymology is "charak (one-quarter)" of "zaro (approx. 104cm)." This size is easy to use for slightly wider entryways, small spaces within the living room, and as a runner in hallways. Simply placing one in a simple space with minimal furniture can pull the room together.

Zaaronim — approx. 100×150cm

Meaning "nim (half)" of "zaro." It is ideal for your private relaxation space, such as beside the bed, in a study, or at the foot of an armchair. In Japanese living environments, I believe it is one of the most versatile sizes.

I once heard a customer who had this size in their bedroom say, "When I wake up in the morning, the first thing I touch is a Persian rug, and when I go to bed at night, the last thing I touch is a Persian rug." The sensation of touching it with the soles of your feet at the beginning and end of the day is an experience unique to silk. It's a usage that's possible precisely because its size doesn't obstruct furniture traffic.

Galiche (Dozaar) — approx. 130×200cm

Meaning approximately "do (two)" "zar (approx. 104cm)," so about 2 zar in size. This size is perfect for placing in front of a 2-3 seater sofa or under a 4-seater dining table. Laying it in the center of the living room creates a sense of unity in the furniture arrangement.

I once received feedback from a customer who said, "I sat in the middle of my three-seater sofa and listened to three CDs straight. It brought about a richness of feeling." Even when engaged in an activity slightly removed from the rug, like sitting and listening to music, having the rug in view changes the density of daily life. The Galiche is precisely the right size for "spending time sitting down."

Pardeh — approx. 140×240cm

Meaning "curtain" or "partition." This size is one step larger than a Galiche and suitable for spacious living rooms or dining areas. It can cover an entire sofa set or gently divide a space. When hung on a wall like a tapestry, this size makes a significant statement.

Ghali (Dodarse) — approx. 200×300cm

"Do (two)" "darse (three)," a large size of approximately 2x3 meters. It can be used as the centerpiece of a spacious living room or reception area, enveloping the entire space. When placed under a large sofa set or a large table, the entire room feels like a unified place of relaxation.

The piece from Milmehdi Kourbo in the video is a large-scale living room rug that weaves together the tree of life, a vase, and a paradise of small birds. Those who choose a rug of this class as the centerpiece for a family gathering place almost certainly take their time and choose carefully.

Moraba — approx. 100×100cm square

Meaning "square." Among Persian rugs, which are typically rectangular, square rugs are difficult to weave and produced in smaller quantities, making them a rare category. They are often used under circular tables, in uniquely shaped rooms, or as an accent in an unexpectedly placed arrangement.

Size indications do not include fringes.

It is industry practice for Persian rug size indications not to include the fringes at both ends. Even if it says "100×150cm," that is the dimension of the woven part. In most cases, there are fringes of about 5-10cm at each end.

If you choose a size that is "perfectly" fitted for your space, the fringes might hit walls or furniture, preventing a neat fit, making the space look cramped, or causing the fringes to get damaged easily. Allowing at least 5cm of extra space in both length and width will ensure a settled appearance when laid out.

On product pages, it is honest practice to list the dimensions of the woven part and the fringe length separately. At Golestan, all products display the actual dimensions and fringe lengths separately, so you can confirm how it will fit before purchasing.

How to choose for each room

Now that you know the designations, here's a summary of guidelines for each room.

• Entryway: Poshti (60×90) is standard. For a wider entryway or mudroom, Zaarocharak (80×120).
• Hallway or staircase landing: Zaarocharak (80×120) as a runner.
• Bedroom floor (bedside): Zaaronim (100×150). A size to touch with your feet morning and evening.
• Study/at the foot of a chair: Poshti or Zaaronim. According to traffic flow.
• Center rug in front of a 3-seater sofa: Galiche (130×200).
• Under a 4-seater dining table: Galiche or Pardeh (140×240). Based on the size that allows chair legs to rest on it when pulled out.
• Large living room overall: Ghali (200×300) or larger. Arranged to cover an entire sofa set.
• Square space: Moraba (100×100). Worth choosing for its rarity.

The option of hanging it on a wall

Silk rugs can be hung on walls, not just laid on floors. Smaller sizes (30x45cm, 60x90cm) can be framed and displayed like paintings, revealing a different expression than when laid on the floor, as the shine of the threads shifts with the angle of light.

Some customers creatively use silk rugs as wall decorations without framing them because "silk rugs are light." Indeed, silk rugs are thin and light, so they remain stable even when simply hung with special fixtures. For those with limited floor space or who wish to maintain their beautiful condition for a long time, hanging them on the wall is a practical option.

In an entryway, on a staircase landing, on a study wall, or above a console table. Displaying them in places where the eye naturally falls instantly changes the impression of the space.

What we want to tell you before choosing

The best way to minimize regret when choosing a size is to actually measure the space where it will be placed before making a selection. The impression can differ between blueprint measurements and the actual furniture arrangement.

At Golestan, if you provide us with photos and dimensions of your room when you inquire, we will suggest several suitable sizes and patterns. We recommend taking your time and comparing multiple options before making your decision.