Bidjar is a town in Persian Kurdistan located in north-west Persia. Bidjar lies between the city of Senneh or Sanandaj to the south and the legendary weaving center of Tabriz to the north. Over the centuries, the city of Bijar has been home to many different tribes, from the Azerbaijanis and Turks to the Kurds. Kurdish culture and artistic ability are clearly visible in the quality of the region’s antique carpets. Kurdish tribes have traditionally been the region’s endemic people.
Bidjar name is also used to describe the antique rugs that were produced in the many villages in the surrounding vicinity. The Bidjar is noted as being the stiffest carpet made; they are very heavy in relation to their size, and very thick and durable, hence they are called Iron Rugs of Iran. All of them are symmetrical and the rows are beaten down during the weaving process producing a dense compact fabric. Given their thickness and construction Bidjar rugs can be difficult to fold. Known for producing some of the most important Persian rugs, Bidjar weavers have perfected a style of rug weaving that results in what are called “Iron Rugs.” Bidder weavers are also responsible for the so-called “Man’s Rug.” The many designs depict the Kurdish influence of the area and often floral and classical geometric motifs are employed as well as the use of large, whimsical medallion designs and air loom in the making.