Handwoven carpet with silk background

Silk floor handmade carpet

Silk floor handwoven carpet is one of the artistic masterpieces of Iran, which is created with a combination of art, elegance and skill of Iranian weavers. These carpets, which use silk in the background or "floor", not only show a unique effect of beauty and softness, but also show the rich history and culture of Iran. Silk, as a precious and durable material, not only increases the quality and value of the carpet, but also gives a special shine to traditional designs and motifs. Silk floor carpets have long been used not only as part of the decoration of Iranian homes, but also as a symbol of authenticity, wealth and social status. The importance of these carpets in Iranian culture and art is such that even today in many homes, these carpets are passed down as family treasures from one generation to another, and they still have a special place in the domestic and international markets.

History of silk carpets

Before the Safavid era, hand-woven carpets in Iran were mostly woven from wool and sometimes silk, but the widespread use of silk, especially in silk floor carpets, was not very common. Because of its high value, silk was commonly used in fine and decorative weavings, and carpets woven entirely from silk were produced mainly for the court and the aristocracy. These carpets were mostly used as a luxury item and a symbol of power and wealth due to their special shine and softness.  
The Safavid era (1501-1736 AD) can be considered a turning point in the history of Iranian carpet weaving. During this period, silk floor carpets reached their peak of prosperity and perfection. The Safavid kings, especially Shah Abbas the Great, were very interested in promoting Iranian arts, and by supporting carpet weaving workshops in cities such as Isfahan, Tabriz, Kashan, and Kerman, the production of handwoven silk carpets increased greatly. These carpets with complex and delicate designs such as Slimi motifs, Shikargah, flowers and chickens and geometric designs, became famous not only in Iranian courts but throughout Europe and Asia.  
During the Qajar era (1789-1925 AD), despite the political and social changes, the production of silk floor carpets continued. In this period, traditional designs were accompanied by some innovations and changes in colors and motifs. Although the economic and political conditions sometimes affected the production of these carpets, the weavers continued to create beautiful and exquisite works. Workshops in cities such as Kashan and Tabriz continued to produce silk floor carpets with new designs and diverse colors, and these carpets remained one of Iran's most important export items to Europe and other parts of the world.

Silk floor carpets in today's world

As one of the luxurious and valuable products, silk floor carpets are in high demand in the world markets. Markets such as the United States, Europe and Persian Gulf countries are among the main export destinations of these carpets. Due to their high quality and the use of precious raw materials, these carpets are often used as decorative items in homes, luxury hotels, and historical places.  
In the modern world, silk floor carpets are used as artistic and ornamental pieces in the interior decoration of homes and commercial spaces. Interior designers use these carpets to create a luxurious and stylish atmosphere due to their complex designs, bright colors and soft texture. Silk floor rugs can be placed as a focal point in the rooms and give a unique effect to the space.  
Although silk floor carpets are traditionally woven by hand, modern technologies have also had an impact on the production of these carpets. The use of more stable and high-quality chemical dyes, the improvement of texture tools, and the use of design software to create new and diverse motifs are among the positive effects of technology on the production of these carpets. However, the originality and traditional weaving techniques are still preserved and guarantee the artistic value of these carpets.

Raw materials and production process

Silk floor carpets are known as one of the most exquisite and valuable Iranian handwoven carpets due to the use of precious raw materials and complex production process. These carpets are woven with special care and skill, and each stage of their production requires the knowledge and experience of skilled weavers.

Raw materials

pure silk:

The main raw material in the production of silk carpets is pure silk. Silk gives a unique effect to the carpet due to its brilliance, softness, and softness. This material is obtained from silkworm cocoons and after certain processes, it is transformed into thin and resistant threads. In silk floor carpets, pure silk is used for the background (floor) texture of the carpet, which makes the carpet generally shiny and shiny.

Wool and fluff:

In some silk floor carpets, in addition to silk, wool and fluff are also used to weave parts of the carpet. Wool is obtained from sheep and fluff from goats or camels, and due to its high resistance and durability, it is used as complementary raw materials along with silk. These combinations not only help to reduce the cost of production, but also give the carpet unique features.

Natural and chemical colors:

In silk floor carpets, natural and chemical dyes are used to color the threads. Natural dyes are obtained from plants, fruits, and minerals and have been used since ancient times due to their high stability and non-damage to the texture of the carpet. In addition to these colors, chemical colors are also used today, which have more variety and are highly resistant to light and washing.

Production process

Before starting the weaving process, the silk threads must be prepared. It includes processes such as dyeing, drying, and warping of yarns. The silk threads that are going to be used in the carpet must be carefully selected and processed to ensure their uniformity and high quality.  
Weaving is the first practical step in carpet production. At this stage, the chele threads, which are usually made of silk or cotton, are stretched parallel and tight on the carpet. These threads act as the base and the main structure of the carpet and the weavers use them to create the designs and patterns of the carpet.  
The texture of the silk floor carpet is done through knotting. In this process, silk threads are wrapped and knotted around chela threads. Each knot forms a small unit of the overall design of the carpet. Skilled weavers carefully and delicately place each knot in place so that the intricate designs and fine details are just right. Due to the thinness and softness of the silk threads, this stage has a very high precision and concentration.  
After finishing the weaving, the carpet is separated from the rug and enters the finishing stage. At this stage, the surface of the carpet is carefully polished with special scissors to cut the extra piles and create a smooth and even surface. Careful polishing of the carpet helps to maintain its beauty and shine and also shows the designs of the carpet well.  
After polishing, the carpet is washed to remove any dirt and paint residue. This step helps to stabilize the colors and soften the texture of the carpet. After washing, the carpet is spread flat on flat surfaces to dry evenly. Proper drying of the carpet is very important, because it has a direct effect on maintaining the shape and size of the carpet.

Design and common patterns in silk floor carpets

1. Slim design

One of the most common designs in silk carpets is the slime design. This design includes curved and twisted lines that spread symmetrically and balanced throughout the carpet. Slimi design is a symbol of plants and nature and is a reflection of Islamic art in Iranian designs. This role is often used in the field of silk floor carpets, and due to the many details, it requires high precision and skill in weaving.

2. Flower and bush design

Flower and bush design is another popular design in silk carpets. The design consists of a combination of complex and harmonious flowers, leaves and branches that are regularly repeated throughout the rug. The flowers used in these designs usually include tulips, roses, and lilies, which symbolize beauty, growth, and life. The flower and bush design is very popular for its elegance and beauty, especially in silk floor rugs.

3. Hunting plan

Shekargah design is one of the traditional and famous Iranian designs used in silk floor carpets. The design depicts scenes of hunting and life in nature, including scenes of hunters on horseback, wild animals, and natural landscapes. The design of the hunting ground is known as one of the most valuable and artistic designs in silk floor carpets due to its many details and the complexity of the motifs.

4. Lach and Tareng design

Lakh and tanraj design is one of the most famous and common Iranian carpet designs, which is also used in silk floor carpets. This design includes a central pattern called "trange", which is circular or oval in the middle of the carpet, and the four corners of the carpet are decorated with patterns called "lechak". The design of lach and tranj is known as a symbol of balance and harmony in Iranian art, and it is very popular in silk floor carpets because of its symmetrical structure and visual beauty.

5. BOTEH JEGHEH plan

Botheh jeghe  design is one of the traditional Iranian designs that is also used in silk floor carpets. This design includes a drop-like pattern that is curved and curved and is used in regular repetitions throughout the carpet. The design of Botheh jeghe is a symbol of cedar and a myth of resistance and stability, and due to its simplicity and at the same time its special beauty, it is widely used in silk floor carpets.

6. Geometric design  

Geometric designs are also common designs in silk carpets. These designs include symmetrical and repeating geometric lines and shapes such as squares, triangles, and polygons that spread across the rug in a regular pattern. Geometric designs are very popular in silk carpets due to their simplicity and adaptability to different decoration styles.

7. Tangled fish design

Mahi Durham design is one of the traditional and old Iranian designs that can also be seen in silk floor carpets. This design includes motifs that are designed in the form of small fish and in a compact and compact way. The entwined fish design is known as a symbol of abundance and blessing in Iranian culture, and due to its repetitive and regular pattern, it creates a beautiful and unique effect in silk floor carpets.

The structure of the silk floor carpet

Silk floor carpets are at a high level in terms of beauty and quality due to the use of pure silk in their structure. These carpets have a complex and precise structure, which, as a result, brings special features such as brilliance, softness, and durability. Here we examine the main components of the structure of silk floor carpets:

1. Background or floor

The background or floor of the carpet, which is also called "pile", is the main and prominent part of the carpet, which is woven from pure silk. Due to the use of silk, this part of the carpet has a special softness and shine and gives a special and luxurious feeling to the environment. Silk gives a special effect to the carpet background due to its natural properties such as gloss and softness.

2. Cheleh

The chela or "tack" forms the base structure of the carpet and runs vertically along the length of the carpet. In silk floor carpets, the pile is usually also woven from silk, which helps the carpet to be more resistant and durable. Chele plays an essential role in maintaining the shape and structure of the carpet and supporting its overall texture.

3. Weft

Wefts or "wefts" are threads that are woven horizontally between the skeins. In silk floor carpets, the weft is usually made of silk or other threads, which gives cohesion and strength to the structure and texture of the carpet. Silk wefts can add more softness and softness to the carpet.

5. Nodes

In hand-woven silk carpets, knots are one of the key elements that are used to create designs and motifs using silk threads. These knots are usually woven as combined knots such as Turkish and Persian knots and require high precision and skill. The type and density of knots affect the quality and elegance of the carpet.

6. Edge embroidery and finishing

The edging or "margining" and finishing of silk floor rugs is usually done with high precision using silk or wool threads. These parts help to make the carpet more beautiful and strong, and at the same time, they help to maintain its shape and cohesion.

Advantages and characteristics of hand-woven silk floor carpet

1. Unique brilliance and beauty

Due to the use of pure silk in the texture, silk floor carpets have a unique luster and shine. Silk, as a shiny natural material, beautifully reflects the light that shines on the surface of the carpet and gives the carpet a shiny and luxurious effect. This feature makes silk floor rugs not only a floor covering, but also an outstanding work of art in interior decoration.

2. Extraordinary tenderness and softness

One of the distinctive features of silk carpets is their unique softness. Silk, as a natural fiber, has a soft texture that gives a pleasant feeling when touching the carpet. This feature makes silk floor carpets very suitable for use in luxury and special spaces such as living rooms, bedrooms and reception halls.

3. Durability and high resistance

Unlike the softness and elegance of silk floor carpets, these carpets are very durable and resistant. Due to the strong and complex structure of its fibers, silk is well resistant to wear and tear. Also, these rugs can last for years without quality loss, provided they are properly maintained, due to their tight weave and the use of precise and tight knots.

4. Preservation of value and investment

Silk floor rugs are considered an artistic and economic investment due to the use of expensive raw materials and complex production process. These rugs retain their value over time, and in many cases, even gain more value over time. This feature makes buying silk floor rugs not only a beautiful and artistic decision, but also a smart investment.

5. Artistic designs and motifs

Silk floor carpets are known as a representative of Iranian art and culture due to the use of complex and artistic designs and motifs. Each hand-woven silk carpet is a unique work of art created with the utmost care and skill of the weavers. These motifs and designs, which often include slimy patterns, flower and bush, lach and bergamot and other traditional motifs, give the carpet an artistic and cultural effect that distinguishes it from other carpets.

6. Breathability and hypoallergenic

As a natural material, silk is hypoallergenic and has good breathability. This feature makes silk floor carpets suitable for people who are allergic to synthetic materials. Also, silk naturally repels bacteria and fungi, so silk floor rugs stay naturally clean and hygienic.

7. Light weight

Another feature of silk floor carpets is their light weight compared to wool carpets. This feature makes it easier to transport and move these carpets. The light weight also lends itself to the use of silk floor rugs as curtains or wall decorations.

Differences between silk floor carpets and silk flowers

1. Raw materials and textures

Silk floor carpet: In silk floor carpets, pure silk is used for the texture of the carpet. These carpets usually have a very soft and shiny texture, and due to the use of silk, they have a special shine and softness. In general, silk floor carpets have a higher price due to the silk material in the floor and pile, and they have great quality and beauty.  
Silk Flower Carpet: In silk flower carpets, silk is normally used only for the texture of patterns and flowers (embossed and decorative parts), while the background of the carpet may be made of wool, fluff or other materials. These types of rugs are particularly famous for their flower and bush designs, where silk is used to create a shimmering and delicate effect, while the background of the rug may be of other materials.

2. Design and motifs

Silk Floor Carpet: Silk floor carpet designs are usually woven entirely from silk and include a variety of designs including traditional, slim, and geometric designs. These carpets are uniformly shiny and beautiful due to the use of silk in the entire field.  
Silk flower carpet: The design of silk flower carpets especially emphasizes on flower and bush motifs. In this type of carpets, only flowers and decorative motifs are woven from silk, while the background of the carpet may be wool or fluff. This special design gives the carpet a beautiful and artistic appearance, and silk is used only in the prominent and decorative parts of the carpet.

3. Application and durability

Silk floor carpet: These carpets are generally used as luxury and valuable carpets for special and low-traffic spaces such as reception halls and bedrooms due to the use of silk in all its parts. They need special care and are not exposed to much traffic.  
Silk flower carpet: These carpets may be a little more durable than silk floor carpets due to the presence of different materials in the background and the use of silk only for motifs. They can be used as a beautiful and functional choice for various spaces, including living rooms and reception rooms.

Use of silk floor carpet in interior decoration

Silk floor carpets, with their unique shine and elegance, can act as a focal point in the interior decoration of luxury spaces. For optimal use of these carpets, they should be spread in places with low traffic, such as reception halls and luxury bedrooms, to maintain their appearance and beauty. The coordination of the color and design of the carpet with the style and colors in the interior decoration is also of particular importance; For example, for classic decorations, carpets with traditional designs and warm colors are a good choice, while modern decorations can benefit from carpets with simpler designs and neutral colors. By using silk floor carpets as a focal point, you can give a special and artistic effect to the interior of the house.

Care and maintenance of silk floor carpets

Because of their special value and elegance, silk floor carpets require special care to maintain their beauty and quality for many years. To maintain these precious rugs, you should regularly vacuum with gentle suction and avoid contact with liquids and food, as stains can quickly damage the texture of the rug. In case of a stain, you should immediately absorb the excess liquid with a soft and dry cloth and avoid direct use of water and chemicals. Also, direct sunlight can cause silk to turn pale; Therefore, it is better not to expose carpets to direct light and use curtains or protective covers. Maintaining stable environmental conditions in terms of temperature and humidity is also very important, because extreme changes can damage the texture of the carpet. By following these tips, you can maintain the longevity and beauty of silk carpets and enjoy their shine and value.

Final word

Silk floor carpets, combining natural beauty and hand-woven art, are a symbol of luxury and precision in the world of carpets. The use of pure silk in the background, skein, and weft of these carpets has made them a premium choice for luxurious and special spaces. Incomparable luster, extraordinary softness, and intricate artistic designs used in these rugs, each uniquely adds to the beauty and splendor of the space.  
These carpets are valuable not only as a beautiful and valuable floor covering, but also as an artistic and cultural investment. Choosing these carpets for interior decoration means adding a piece of history and art to your living space, which you will enjoy every day. With this deep understanding of the importance and characteristics of silk floor carpets, you can fully benefit from the beauty and value of this traditional art and make your home more beautiful in a unique way.

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