Kazak rugs are a type of Armenian rug that were woven in the south of Caucasus, between Tiflis and Erevan. They are not associated with any particular tribe, but with the geographical areas in which they were made.  The Kazak rugs were hand-knotted for the very best quality and were generally made by the women of the communities. Since Armenians are among the first people to have woven Oriental rugs, theirs is a skill that has been passed down since 5th century BC. As such, you can rest assured that Kazak rugs are of the highest possible quality and craftsmanship, considering the Armenians have been practicing their craft for more than 2000 years. The Kazak rugs are known for their large-scale patterns, their contrasting colours, and the presence of numerous medallions.

There are three types of Kazak rugs, each of which were made in a different geographical area. Bordjalou Kazak rugs were made in a district that lies to the south of Tiflis. These rugs were coarsely woven and were simple in design, generally of the colours red, blue, ivory, and brown.  The Kazak rugs from an area south of Bordjalou and north of Erevan are large area rugs that have a shorter pile and have more formal designs. The rugs from Erevan and southeast of Erevan are usually made longer and thinner, like runner rugs, and display more simple designs. These rugs generally feature less ivory and more reds and blues.

Traditionally, Kazak rugs and other Armenian rugs were a sign of one’s status. They were placed in the homes of the rich, in palaces, and in churches. They hung on walls, were placed on floors, and were even placed on the throne of the king or at his feet. These special rugs were often woven with strands of silver and gold. Armenians and non-Armenians would commonly dine on the rugs and sometimes these rugs were even demanded as part of the tax owed to the kings, emperors, princes, and other nobility that ruled over the Armenians. The Kazak rugs and other Armenian rugs were considered luxuries indeed.