There is a well-known story about the cypress tree that Zoroaster brought from paradise and planted in Kashmar. The city of Kashmar, formerly known as Turshiz, is now one of the significant carpet-weaving centers in Khorasan and has earned a prestigious place in the Iranian rug market. In this article, we will talk about the history of these rugs and their features. Follow along!

The history of Kashmar Rugs

Kashmar (Turshiz) is one of the cities in Razavi Khorasan province active in rug weaving, located 230 kilometers from Mashhad. After Mashhad, Birjand, and Derakhsh, Kashmar ranks fourth among the carpet-weaving centers of Khorasan. The start of the modern weaving era in Kashmar can be traced back to the years between 1881 and 1901. Mohammad Kermani was the first master weaver in the Kashmar region, and it seems he migrated to Kashmar from Kerman, judging by his name.

The year 1961 can be considered a year of transformation, movement, and innovation for Kashmar carpets. With the arrival of Master Alipour, a significant change occurred in the rug weaving of Khorasan, particularly in Kashmar. Innovation and transformation in designs, along with increasing the knot density of rugs up to 35 and 40 knots, were notable characteristics of this period. The introduction of the "Zir Khaki" design, known as the "Bowl and Vase" design in Khorasan, especially in Kashmar, using some motifs and flowers common in Tabriz designs, was a novelty that brought prosperity to Kashmar rug weaving. This design, which includes images of vases, bowls, and even various scenes, was generally presented in red and navy backgrounds. Another innovation by Master Alipour was not coloring the designs during the drawing process and identifying each part of the design with a number, a practice he brought from Tabriz.

From 1971, due to the flourishing of Kashan rugs with their unique designs, a period began in Kashmar rug weaving. However, due to the lower quality of Kashmar rugs compared to the original Kashan versions, this did not achieve much success in the market and sales. In 1981, attention to the authentic designs of Khorasan, especially various "Afshan" and "Lachak Toranj Shah Abbasi" patterns with large flowers typical of Mashhad rugs, and a return to the region's traditional rugs, such as the "Zir Khaki," marked a new era in Kashmar rug weaving. However, the production and sale of Kashan-style rugs continued sporadically. From 1987, the excellent and exceptional market for Naeen rugs domestically and abroad, which spread faster in Khorasan than in other provinces, led many Kashmar weavers to produce rugs in this style. Based on Kashmar rug designs and patterns, they can be categorized into four groups:

1. Naeen designs
2. Kashan designs
3. Pictorial designs
4. New Gol Farang designs

Features of Kashmar Rugs

In terms of knot type, the asymmetrical (Persian) knot is the most commonly used in Kashmar and its surrounding villages, although the symmetrical (Turkish) knot is also used sporadically and to a limited extent.

The selvedge of all Kashmar rugs is done after weaving is completed. Additionally, clipping the knots is always done post-weaving by finishing workshops using electric shears.

All Kashmar rugs are warp-woven on a loom. Wool is the primary material used in Kashmar rugs, with limited use of silk in Naeen-style rugs. The knot density (knot count) of Kashmar rugs is about 35 to 40 knots per square foot. The rugs are loop-woven, and Kashmar weavers primarily produce rugs in sizes of 6.56x9.84 feet, 8.2x11.48 feet and 9.84x13.12 feet, showing less interest in weaving smaller rugs. The widespread use of synthetic dyes among Kashmar dyers is due to ease of use and lower cost.

Design and Colors of Kashmar Rugs

Kashmar rug designs mainly draw from patterns of Tabriz, Mashhad, Naeen, and Kashan, with the "Zir Khaki" design from Tabriz being one of them, sometimes lacking borders and covering the entire rug surface with columns, vases, and old containers. The cypress motif is highly significant in Kashmar rugs, occupying a large portion of the background, reflecting the historical narratives of Zoroaster's cypress. The Simurgh motif in animal designs is unique to Kashmar rugs, not found in designs from other regions, and can be considered a hallmark of Kashmar carpets. Additionally, "Afshan" and "Lachak Toranj" designs are examples of Kashmar patterns.

Two well-known designs before 1961 were "Hassan Ghazi" and "Zarrin Kolk," which have been used sporadically by Kashmar weavers over the years.

The red color used in Kashmar rugs, known in other regions as "Laaki Gol Khari," has been widely used in Kashmar weavings for many years and can be considered a distinguishing feature.

Conclusion

The rich history and distinctive features of Kashmar carpets highlight their unique place in the world of Persian rugs. From the traditional designs to the beautiful color palettes and intricate patterns, these carpets are truly works of art. Whether you're a collector or simply someone who appreciates fine arts, Kashmar carpets offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Iran.

Don't forget to check our rug collection to find the perfect piece for your home!