Semi-antique Maras kilim from Turkey. 167x100 cms

A finely woven semi-antique kilim from Turkey’s Maraş region, this piece showcases three vertical rows of traditional motifs set against a warm reddish-pink background, enhanced by a beautiful abrash—the natural variation in color that adds depth and character. Woven with generous use of undyed wool, the ivory and grey areas offer a soft, organic contrast to the richer tones. Some additional motifs have been added with the cicim technique.

With its intricate detailing and gentle color palette, this Maraş kilim is ideal for adding a touch of color and pattern to your space while maintaining a subtle, understated elegance.

Material: 100% hand-spun sheep wool

Size: 167×100 cms

Origin: Maras, Turkey

Date of weaving: 1940s

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.