Among the many treasures of Persian weaving, Souf rugs stand out – literally. These remarkable textiles feature raised pile designs, creating a sculptural, almost three-dimensional surface that invites both the eye and the hand.

What makes a rug “souf”?

The word souf refers to the cut-out or relief-style technique that distinguishes these rugs. Weavers create depth by leaving parts of the pile raised while having a kilim, flatwoven ground. The result is a richly textured surface where the design appears to lift off the rug.

Soufs have historically been woven in cities like Tabriz, Kashan and Qum, where weavers mastered the art of incorporating traditional Persian motifs like floral arabesques, vases, hunting or farming scenes, into a deeply textural format. Older soufs commonly had metallic threads and silk in the decorated areas. The play of light and shadow over the raised patterns gives these rugs an added sense of movement.

Today, souf rugs remain a coveted style, coming from Afghanistan, Turkey, India… offering more than just pattern, but presence.