Vintage Arab shiraki kilim from Iran. 228x152 cms

Vintage Shiraki Kilim with Lattice Design 

This type of kilim is known locally in southern Iran as a “shiraki”, a word that literally means “needle work” — though, interestingly, it is woven on a loom rather than sewn. Due to the limited size of the looms available to most weavers, shiraki kilims were traditionally woven in two separate panels and then meticulously joined to achieve the desired width, a nearly square kilim. In this particular piece, this shiraki is woven in one complete piece, quite a rare feature.

This shiraki kilim features a traditional lattice or grid pattern in the main field—a classic design. For the border, the weaver introduced the same design as in the main field, but in lighter colours. 

This vintage kilim was woven by an ethnic Arab weaver in southern Iran, carrying the rich textile traditions of the region. 

Material: 100% hand-spun sheep wool

Size: 228×152 cms

Origin: Arab tribe from Iran

Date of weaving: 1970’s 

Arab nomads of Fars Province, Iran, are descended from certain Arab tribes of Najd, Yammaneh and Omman who migrated in the 7th and 8th centuries following the Arab contest (640 A.D.) and the advent of Islam. They speak a corruption of Arabic and Persian.

Althoug Arab nomad piled production encompasses a great and astonishing variety of designs, with field patterns much more varied than other tribes of Fars, the Arab weaver´s adherance to a generally dark and sober palette has denied them the artistic recognition they deserve.