Old Kelim | 329 x 184 cm | Nr. Z-124

Floral old Kelim, dark brown with border

Origin

Bright colours and simple, geometric patterns – that is what makes Kelims loved the world over. Kelims (also Kilim, Qilim) were traditionally made only for the weavers' own use. Nomads and farmers used, and still use, their Kelims as rugs on the floor, but also as tent or wall hangings, blankets, cushions or bags. Because Kelims were constant companions in everyday life, their patterns – however naive they may look – always carry a personal message and hold meaning for the weavers and their families.

In Europe, Kelims from Turkey, the Caucasus region, Iran, Afghanistan and the Turkmen cultural area are especially well known and loved. In fact, rugs are hand-woven in every country where rugs are knotted. This old Kelim is around 50 years old and a real collector's piece. What makes this piece special is its abstract rose pattern.

Pattern

The edge of the rug is framed by a decorative border. The border forms a beautiful contrast with the centre.

The lavish floral motifs of this Kelim are elegant and full of variety. The graceful plant symbols, which depict blossoms, leaves and branches, are artfully intertwined.

The background of this Kelim is dark brown. The border is olive green.

Condition

You are not the first to take a liking to this Kelim. It has had owners before you who valued it and used it. It was hand-woven around 1970. We have cleaned it thoroughly and restored it with great care. Despite its age, it is therefore in very good condition.

Material

Kelims are hand-woven and consist only of warp and weft threads, so they have no thick pile standing upright. Kelims show the same pattern on both sides and can therefore be used either way up. The pattern is created by the coloured weft threads woven into the warp threads. For every new colour, a new thread has to be used in each row. The thread ends are worked in as the weaving goes along.

The weft threads of this Kelim rug are made of hand-spun sheep's wool dyed with plant colours. Before the rug was woven, sheep were first sheared and the wool was then cleaned, combed and finally spun. After spinning, the wool for Kelim rugs is dyed with natural colours in an elaborate process. Because of this traditional method, the pile of Kelim rugs feels dry and slightly furry. The warp threads of this Kelim are made of X.