Thursday, May 1, 2008

Lori rugs

Lori rugs, woven by people living in Lorestan in the western part of Iran, are tribal traditional rugs. The Lori, or Luri as they are sometimes referred to, have lived happily as nomads for over 600 years, free from the constraints of our modern culture. Linguistically Persian, Lori weavers create traditional rugs in designs and styles similar to those created by the Kurds. Still living as they did hundreds of years ago, Lori traditional rugs are woven with handmade tools following the time honored traditions that have been handed down from generation to generation over centuries. Lori traditional rugs are flat-woven, meaning that it is a textile without a pile.

Flat weave is a technique of weaving where no knots are used. Instead the warp strands are used as the foundation of the traditional rugs and the weft stands are used as both part of the foundation and in creating the patterns. The weft strands are woven through the warp strands.
Although most Lori traditional rugs feature floral designs, it is also quite common to see geometric patterns as well. They have created distinctive interpretations of the Mina Khani pattern (the design field is covered with daisies connected together with lines that form diamonds or circles in an all-over layout) and other floral patterns, occasionally using creative bird imagery and interlocking design units. The designs on Lori traditional rugs, although varied, tend to feature all-over layouts. The fringes are often beautifully braided. The colors of Lori traditional rugs, typically created with vegetable coloring are predominantly deep blues, reds, and oranges.
The warp on Lori traditional rugs is mostly cotton, while the weft is wool. Although available in a wide range of sizes they are most frequently mid-size. Lori traditional rugs are prized for their superior design which is simple and uncomplicated, reflecting the peaceful and balanced nature of the weavers. They are durable enough for even the most high traffic areas, while their beauty will blend harmoniously with any décor.

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