Iran with a population of 75 million has 30 provinces (states). Hamedan is a big and ancient state in north west Iran with eight counties such as Asasabad, Bahar, Hamedan (capital of the province), Kabudarahang, Malayer, Nahavand, Razan, and Tuyserkan. The province of Hamedan has a population of 2,000,000. There are roughly 500 villages in Hamedan province which produce beautiful hand knotted rugs, each with its own design, color palettes, and sizes.
The city of Nahavand is located in south west Hamedan with a population of roughly 200,000 who speak Farsi (Persian) with Lori or Laki (a Kurdish dialect) accent. Nahavand has cold winters and ample supply of water which results in booming agriculture. Beautiful quality rugs are produced in Nahavand with cotton foundation and symmetrical knots. The wefts are cotton or wool. The background color is usually rust red or black and the pile is high and soft, made of local lamb’s wool. This is why Nahavand rugs are so durable.
The design of Nahavand rugs is mostly geometrical with a big central medallion, leaves, abstract animals and trees. There may be vases and birds in the designs as well. In general, the designs are very simple and in no way elaborate and detailed. The sizes are small and usually less than 7’ by 10’. Some runners are also made. One of the most common sizes of Nahavand rugs is 5’ x 10’. Runners are occasionally made. It is not unusual to see dated or inscribed rugs made in Nahavand. I am posting a picture of a 7' x 10' Nahavand rug here with the name of the weaver. The inscription reads: "Weaver Fatima". The looms are horizontal placed on the ground.
Since Nahavand rugs are village, rural and tribal carpets, you see so many irregularities and imperfections in them and that is the beauty of the rugs from Nahavand. Each piece is exclusive and unique.
Dr. Khosrow Sobhe (Dr. Kay)
Certified Rug Specialist (CRS)
www.RugIdea.com
www.LosAngelesRugCleaning.com
310-770-9085
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