Covoare Kilim

The description "Kilim" comes from the Persian word gelim. In Kurdish they are called Berr. The most famous Persian kilims are: Sumakh, Senneh, Fars, and Qashqai. Some Afghan kilims are Golbariasta, Maimane, Taimani, Maliki and many others. A lot of kilims are also woven by the Balouch nomads who live near the borders of Iran and Afghanistan. The dark, earth colours that are used are typical for this region.

In comparison to an oriental carpet a kilim is a more simple type of weave that contains characteristic geometrical patterns, a rich combination of colours but no pile. Natural materials such as wool is used for the weave or for finer and thinner kilims sometimes even silk. They are dyed with the help of various herbs and metals. In this way kelims gain their beautiful natural shades.

Their tradition goes back centuries to the nomads that once lived in central Asia. They were originally household items whose trade started much later in the flourishing years of carpet manufacturing. Collectors show the same great interest both in old, original kilims and in carpets. Their value depends not only on their age and size, but also on the rarity of colours and designs and their provenience. Also today, modern kilims in beautiful colours and designs and at significantly lower prices are being woven and can be easily matched with modern furniture. They can be used in anumber of ways, such as on the floor, as a cover for your sofa or chair or as a wall decoration.

Persian Kilims

Depending on the weaving technique and materials and the place of origin we use the following terms when referring to Persian kilims: Sumakh, Senneh, fars and Qashqai. The Sumakh kilims usually show the typical herringbone pattern. For the weaving of these kilims the nomads use wool yarns as well as silk yarns or a combination of both.

Afghan Kilims

Some famous Afghan kilims are: Galmuri, Maimane, Maliki and Golbarjasta. The latter have got additional knots which makes their surface varied and stylish.

Decorative Kilims

Nowadays nomads in Persia and Afghanistan still manufacture with the help of the kilim weaving technique, bags for the transport of their goods, protective coverings for the entrance of their tents, curtains, pillows and other decorative objects.