«Tree» pattern in handwoven carpet

Handmade tree design carpet

Handwoven carpet with a tree pattern is one of the outstanding and beautiful patterns in the art of carpet weaving, which gives a unique effect to interior spaces by combining natural elements and complex design. These carpets, which are mainly produced in different regions of the world, are a symbol of nature and life due to the use of tree and plant designs. The tree design, by visualizing natural elements such as stems, branches and leaves, is well able to convey the beauty and tranquility of nature into homes.  
The unique features of these carpets include intricate designs and the use of diverse and natural colors that are typically produced using natural fibers and precise weaving techniques. Tree designs not only have a great visual beauty, but are also known as a symbol of growth, life and human connection with nature.  
These carpets are especially important in interior decoration, because they can act as a focal point in different spaces and have a great impact on the overall beauty and harmony of the environment. In this article, we will examine the various aspects of the handwoven carpet with a tree design, from its history and cultural roots to its weaving techniques and decorative applications.

The history and origins of tree design

The tree design in handwoven carpets has an ancient history and deep cultural roots that go back to different historical and geographical periods. These designs have been widely used especially in Iranian and Central Asian weaving art, as well as in some regions of India and Turkey. During the Safavid and Qajar periods in Iran, tree designs were used as symbols of nature and natural beauty in carpets and showed deep attention to natural elements and the environment. In Islamic cultures, the tree is known as a symbol of heaven and eternal life, and this symbol is well represented in the designs of handwoven carpets. Trees are a symbol of life, growth and sustainability in many eastern cultures, and tree designs in handwoven carpets depict this cultural and spiritual connection. Over time, these designs have been influenced by various artistic and cultural changes and have evolved into more complex patterns that have added to the aesthetics and decorative performance of handwoven carpets. In general, the history and origins of the tree design in handwoven carpets show the deep connection of the art of weaving with culture, history and spiritual symbols, and these designs are recognized as part of the valuable cultural heritage in the art of carpet weaving.

The historical peak of the tree design

The tree design in handwoven carpets goes back to different historical periods in which this design reached its peak of beauty and complexity. The historical peak of the tree design can be seen especially in the Safavid and Qajar periods in Iran, as well as in similar artistic periods in Central Asia.  
Safavid period (1501-1736 AD)  
In the Safavid period, Iranian carpets with tree designs reached the peak of their beauty and complexity. This period became one of the golden eras of carpet weaving art due to the use of advanced weaving techniques and complex designs. In this period, tree designs were especially displayed with detailed designs and the use of vivid and varied colors. Trees and branches were seen in these carpets in a coherent and harmonious way with other design elements, especially in heavenly gardens and classical designs.  
Qajar period (1789-1925 AD)  
In the Qajar period, tree designs were used in Iranian carpets, especially in large and luxurious fabrics. This period saw the expansion of natural and plant designs in the design of carpets, which was especially noted in exquisite textures and royal courts. Tree designs at this time typically featured trees with large medallions and intricate branches, complemented by geometric patterns and vibrant colors.

The difference between a tree design and a tree pattern in carpets

Tree design: It is a general design based on the structure of trees in the carpet arrangement. That is, trees are the main and dominant element in the whole map and design of the carpet.  
Tree pattern: It is one of the partial patterns or patterns that may be used in a general design. A tree motif can also be an element in a variety of other designs, such as a garden design (a design that includes trees, flowers, and other natural elements).  
Therefore, tree design refers to the overall structure and layout, while tree role refers to the more detailed and specific pattern used in that design.

Tree design in today's carpets

The tree design in today's carpets has given a new and contemporary effect to the art of weaving by combining modern designs and advanced techniques. With a wide variety of colors, from pastel and neon colors to minimalist and abstract designs, these designs are especially compatible with modern decorations. The use of modern weaving technologies enables the production of complex and detailed designs and gives more depth and details to the carpets. These carpets, in addition to preserving the cultural identity and artistic traditions, act as a flexible decorative element in contemporary spaces and add to the modern interior aesthetics.

Characteristics of tree design

The design characteristics of the tree pattern in handwoven rugs are significantly influenced by specific details and weaving techniques and include several key elements that give these designs a special effect.  
Tree designs in carpets are usually designed with precise and intricate details. Trees and branches are regularly and artistically depicted on the surface of the carpet. Tree designs can include trees with strong trunks, thick branches and varied leaves that are displayed repeatedly or scattered across the surface of the carpet. Among the most important designs and patterns of trees, the following can be mentioned:  
Animal or animal tree design  
Vegetarian tree design or water feature  
Tree design with bergamot  
Cypress tree design  
Potted tree design  
The colors used in tree designs can be remarkably varied and rich. From natural and warm colors such as red, brown and green to bright and modern colors, these colors give a beautiful and attractive effect to tree designs. The choice of colors is usually made according to the interior decoration and artistic tendencies of the weaver.  
Weaving techniques in tree-patterned rugs usually include intricate knots and detailed weaves that bring out the details of the design well. The use of various weaving techniques, such as Persian or Turkmen knots, helps to create depth and clarity in the tree designs and ensures the quality and durability of the rugs.  
In many tree designs, other natural elements such as flowers, fruits and other natural symbols are also included as additional details in the design. This combination of elements gives more beauty and diversity to the tree designs, and generally gives a comprehensive and diverse effect to the carpets.  
Tree designs can be regular and symmetrical or irregular and artistic. Regular patterns are usually distributed repetitively and harmoniously across the surface of the carpet, while irregular designs can represent nature in a more free and artistic manner.

The role and effect of tree design in different cultures

Tree design in carpets has a significant role and influence in different cultures. This design is woven as a natural and cultural symbol in different societies and is reflected in various forms of the culture and art of these societies.  
In Iranian culture, a tree design is used as a symbol of nature and life in carpets, and it has been particularly important in different periods of Iranian art history, especially in the Safavid and Qajar periods. These designs represent people's deep connection with nature as well as the influence of art in displaying natural beauty.  
In Turkmen and Central Asian culture, the tree design, especially in carpets woven by Turkmen tribes, represents cultural and spiritual symbols directly related to village life and local traditions. These designs are usually recognized as part of the cultural heritage and handicrafts in these areas and are respected as part of the ethnic and cultural identity.  
In India and Pakistan, the tree pattern in carpets, especially in the regions of Kashmir and Rajasthan, is known as a symbol of nature and natural beauty. Due to the influence of Iranian art and local traditions, these designs are considered representative of weaving skills and the art of carpet weaving in these regions.  
In Turkey, the tree design in carpets represents the combination of traditional and modern art and is known as one of the prominent features of Turkish carpets. These designs are highly regarded in Turkey for their connection to local history and culture, as well as new artistic influences.  
In general, the tree design as a cultural and artistic symbol in different cultures represents people's relationship with nature, art, and local traditions and has profound effects on the design and texture of carpets in different societies.

Types of designs and patterns of trees in the carpet

In carpet designs with a tree design, the tree is considered as the main and central element. These designs include different types of trees of various sizes and shapes that may appear as the main design in the carpet text or as a complementary role in the borders. Some designs place the trees entirely within the carpet, and the trees may be seen alone or in groups of several.  
Tree designs may include branches, leaves, and fruit, or simply draw only trees without fruit. In some designs, trees are placed in pots, and in other designs, pots are not present. Common trees in these designs include cypress, pine, willow and walnut, each of which carries a specific symbol; For example, the cypress tree is used as a symbol of tallness and endurance, the maddened willow is used as a symbol of sadness and head-in-the-heels, and the walnut is used as a sign of long life.

Animal tree design:

Animal tree design in carpets is a design where a tree is depicted with thick branches and leaves as a central element and its surroundings are decorated with animal motifs. In this design, animals such as tiger, lion, deer and various birds are randomly and without any particular order around the tree. This design, unlike other tree designs, is less old and in some cases it is also known as a forest tree design. The animal design gives the carpet a natural and alive effect due to its diversity and visual richness.

Mehrabi tree design:

Mihrabi tree design is one of the prominent types of tree designs in the carpet industry, which is designed with mihrabi arches and different trees. In this design, the mihrabi arch is the main element in the design, and under it, various trees such as pine, Majnoon willow and cedar are used as the main elements. This original design is especially popular in Islamic periods and is used in Iranian and Islamic carpets as a symbol of beauty and spirituality.

Latch and bergamot tree design:

Lach and Tareng tree design is another attractive carpet design that includes trees in different sizes and dimensions. In this design, the trees may be placed in or around the lach and tranj, which are geometric and decorative patterns in the carpet text. This design generally covers the main text of the carpet with patterned trees and various decorations and is popular in the world of handwoven carpets due to its beauty and harmony with other designs.

Cypress tree design:

The cypress tree design specifically focuses on cypress trees, which are featured prominently in the designs of Kermani and Bakhtiari rugs. In Kermani carpets, the cedar tree appears as the main element in the text or border of the carpet, while in Bakhtiari carpets, this design is continuously designed in rhombus or square frames with various colors. Besides Kermani and Bakhtiari designers, the cypress tree design is also used by other carpet designers and is very popular due to its special beauty and elegance.

Vegetable tree design:

The veggie tree design, with a focus on branches full of flowers and leaves, covers the entire surface of the carpet, leaving very little empty space. This design is widely and repeatedly used in the texture of carpets that in some designs, there is no border for the carpet. In cases where the vegetable design is combined with bergamot, images of water and streams in rectangular or square forms are added in the center of the rug, which is known as the water-view vegetable design. This type of design is especially famous in the Kerman region, including the city of Raver, and is noted for its beauty and visual richness.

Potted tree design:

A potted tree design is specifically designed to include trees and plants that are in different pots or containers. This type of design is especially used in Iranian and Central Asian carpets, which are known for their art and precision in displaying the details of vases and plants. In this design, trees and plants are designed in decorative and artistic vases, which represent harmony and natural beauty in different spaces. This design is especially used as a part of interior decoration that seeks to add beauty and elegance.

Meanings and symbols of various tree patterns

Cedar tree:

It is a symbol of stability and pride and is seen as one of the most important symbolic designs in Kerman carpets. This tree is a symbol of perseverance and the power to stand against hardships.

Palm tree:

It is a symbol of nature's loyalty to man and generosity, which plays a special role in the designs of southern Iranian carpets. The palm tree represents generosity and provision of human needs from the heart of nature.  
Palm tree: as a symbol of agriculture and the prosperity of rural life, it is used in the design of carpets, especially in the southern regions of Iran. This tree is a symbol of fertility and stability.

Pomegranate tree:

A symbol of fertility and fecundity, seen especially in designs with themes of agricultural products and harvest festivals. Pomegranate is a symbol of life and dynamism of nature.

century tree:

Representing longevity and stability, which is used as one of the main design elements in Turkmen handwoven carpets. This tree is a symbol of deep connection with the earth and permanence.  
Grape bush: a symbol of connection and attachment, which can be seen in the common designs of Isfahan carpets. This plant is a symbol of emotional and social connections between people.

elm tree:

It is a symbol of the beauty and freshness of nature, which is used in designs with natural landscapes and open space. This tree brings a sense of peace and greenery to the carpet.

Boxwood plant:

The symbol of light and sunshine, which has many fans among those who like warm and radiant designs. Shamshad is a symbol of warmth and vitality.  
Olive tree: It is a symbol of peace, stability and friendship, which is used in designs related to peace and coexistence. Olive represents the desire for peace and friendship between nations.

pine tree:

A symbol of stability and long life, which can be seen in the carpet designs of cold regions such as Kurdistan and Azerbaijan. Pine is a symbol of resistance to harsh conditions and durability over time.

Composition of carpets with tree pattern

The composition of carpets with tree pattern is one of the beautiful and meaningful effects of carpet weaving art, where trees interact with other motifs and patterns as the main and central element of the design. These compositions are very rich not only in terms of aesthetics, but also in terms of meaning.

Central tree design:

In this type of composition, the tree is placed in the middle of the carpet as the central and dominant element. This design can include a large tree (such as a cypress or sycamore) that extends from the bottom to the top of the rug. The branches and leaves of the tree may spread symmetrically or asymmetrically around. Other motifs such as birds, flowers, and animals are usually placed around the central tree and complete the design.

Garden design (small garden):

In this type of composition, the carpet is divided into several sections or shelves, where one or more small trees are located in each section. These trees can symbolize different types of trees such as pomegranates, cypresses, or dates. Between these trees, patterns such as flowers, animals and even architectural components such as fountains and mansions can be seen. This composition is reminiscent of Iranian gardens and inspires the viewer with a sense of harmony and natural order.

Shrub and bush plan:

In this style, the carpet is decorated with a set of shrubs and bushes that are regularly or scattered on the surface of the carpet. This composition can include smaller repeating motifs of trees and bushes that are repeated throughout the rug. These patterns are mostly seen in nomadic and rural carpets and give the carpet a sense of dynamism and life.

Framed design:

In this composition, the carpet is divided into several frames or panels, each frame containing a tree or a group of trees. Each panel can be a small scene or view of nature. This design is mostly used in carpets in urban areas and with more complex styles, and it shows the attention to detail and diversity in the representation of nature.

Marginal plan:

In this type of composition, trees are repeatedly placed on the edge of the carpet. Carpet borders can consist of rows of trees of similar or different sizes that are regularly spaced around the carpet. The center of the carpet may be plain or filled with other motifs. This type of composition shows the encirclement of nature on human life.

Symmetrical and asymmetrical composition:

In some rugs, the trees are designed completely symmetrically, so that the two sides of the rug are exactly mirror images of each other. On the contrary, in asymmetric designs, trees and other motifs are spread in a freer and non-relative way on the surface of the carpet. This difference in composition gives the carpet a special and unique effect and can be a reflection of biological and cultural diversity.  
The composition of carpets with tree designs and patterns, with a wide variety of shapes and patterns, shows the artists' deep connection with nature. Any type of composition, using trees as symbols of stability, fertility, and beauty, not only provides a beautiful and pleasing atmosphere to the eye, but also carries deep messages and meanings.

Practical and decorative uses of carpet with tree design

Carpets with tree designs are very popular in practical and decorative uses due to their aesthetics and special design features. These carpets, with their special features, can be used as a key element in interior decoration and various practical applications.  
Carpets with tree design are specially used in interior decoration and give a natural and relaxing effect to various spaces such as halls, living rooms, and even offices. Due to its natural colors and diverse designs, tree designs can act as a focal point in a room and blend harmoniously with other decorative elements such as furniture, curtains and walls.  
In commercial spaces such as hotels, restaurants and offices, tree-patterned carpets can be used as a decorative element to increase visual appeal and create a positive user experience. These carpets can be especially useful in areas that need to create a sense of relaxation and beauty, such as lobbies and living areas.

Final word

In the end, we can say that tree designs and motifs in carpets not only have a beautiful and artistic effect, but also carry deep symbols and meanings that are rooted in culture, nature and people's lives. These designs, whether in urban carpets or nomadic carpets, are a reflection of human interaction with nature and express the cultural values ​​and beliefs of each region. The diverse compositions of these motifs, from simple and abstract designs to complex and detailed patterns, each one somehow tells a story of life, sustainability, fertility and human communication. This outstanding art, beyond a decorative device, is an embodiment of the deep connection between art and life, which has remained in Iranian culture for centuries and has been passed down to the next generations.

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