Semi-antique Salihli kilim runner from Turkey. 292x85 cms

Semi-Antique Salihli Kilim Runner – Turkey.  Autumm colours

This semi-antique kilim runner comes from Salihli, Turkey, and features a striking design with three full serrated medallions and two half medallions at either end. The oversized rhomb motifs span the full width of the kilim, creating a bold and dynamic visual impact.

Unlike most traditional layouts, this runner has borders on only two sides. The remaining edges are left open with half medallions, giving the impression that the pattern continues beyond the frame—an effect that adds depth and movement.

The piece also displays beautiful abrash throughout—natural variations in color that occur during the dyeing process, adding richness and character to the kilim. A beautiful colour palette of reds, pinks and lovely pistacio green.

A unique and vibrant choice for a corridor or a narrow hallway.

Material: 100% hand-spun sheep wool

Size: 292×85 cms

Origin: Salihli, Turkey

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. Probably the weaver used wool from her own sheep. 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.