Wednesday, April 30, 2008

Kerman rugs

Kerman rugs, among the finest produced in Iran, are famous for pictorial designs and medallions and outer borders that are intricately detailed in many colors.
Kerman, in southeastern Iran, is located just southeast of Tehran. This long time carpet weaving center is where the prized Kerman Persian carpet is produced. Equal in quality to Tabriz and Isfahan, the Kerman Persian carpet has long been a favorite among western collectors who appreciate the superb craftsmanship and exquisite designs. A Kerman Persian carpet may be hand woven in both the city and surrounding villages, although those made in the city are though to be of a higher quality. Skilled artisans use Persian knots in order to create the intricate detail on these masterpieces.
There is no finer example of pictorial design than the Kerman Persian carpet. Although they are often imitated, they are unequaled. Traditionally a Kerman Persian carpet has medallions and outer borders that are intricately detailed and woven from cartoons. One of the most famous is the Eski-Kerman, a single medallion with arabesque, typically with solid and lighter colored fields. The open field is actually an important distinguishing characteristic of a modern Kerman Persian carpet. Other classic designs are Shah Abbasi medallion-and-corner, all-over floral, all-over boteh, and tree-of-life. The antique and semi-antique rugs have red and blue combinations, while pastel shades like turquoise, orange, champagne, and beige are found on newer rugs. The reds and blues in a Kerman Persian carpet are lighter in comparison to carpets made in other cities. Fifteen to thirty colors are generally used in each carpet.
The foundation of a Kerman Persian carpet is usually cotton, however an exceptionally fine one may have a foundation of pure silk. Kerman Persian carpet materials can be all wool, all silk, or a combination or wool and silk. Although they are famous for their large sizes, smaller sizes are available as well. The Kerman Persian carpet is highly prized for the quality of craftsmanship, and exquisite designs and colors. These are works of art to be enjoyed and treasured.

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