Semi-antique Shahsavan kilim from Iran. 291×158 cms

Semi-antique Shahsavan Kilim, woven in northwest Iran around the 1960s. The more rounded and sinuous motifs in the borders contrasts with the more geometric motifs of the central field. This kilim has an unusual background color and is woven with thick wool, so it will hold up well in high-traffic places.

Material: 100% hand-spun sheep wool

Size: 291×158 cms

Origin: Shahsavan, Iran

Date of weaving:  1960s

Kilims or Gilims are flatwoven textiles with a woollen weft on a woollen, goat hair or cotton warp. There are many different techniques and designs. The weaver normally works within a tradition of techniques, motifs and designs specific to a particular area or ethnic group. The designs relate to her natural surroundings, protection, fertility and the harmony of family relationships. Each weaver adds something from her own creativity and sense of composition. Kilims are often woven as part of a marriage dowry and can be used to create many different objects like storage bags, horse-blankets, baby carriers, blankets and wall and floor coverings.

This kilim was hand-woven on a simple loom by a village or nomadic weaver for her own use. The wool was first cleaned, then hand-carded, hand-spun and finally dyed by hand, often using natural dye materials like roots, nuts, berries, fruits, flowers and plants. Kilims from the last quarter of the twentieth century mostly use synthetic dyes. This kilim would have taken many months to complete.

All our kilims selected in the country of origin and are professionally washed and restored before we import them directly from Iran, Turkey and Afghanistan. Natural patina and charming imperfections in design and colour (abrash) are highly valued characteristics of hand-woven kilims.