Hamadan Rugs and Carpets: Hamadan is one of the world’s oldest cities, dating back several centuries before the birth of Christ. Hamadan and its surrounding villages located in west central Iran, comprise one of the largest trade centers for hand made tribal rugs in the world. The gorgeous rugs produced in this area are very well known for their strong Turkish influence. Hamadan rugs, were traditionally used as sleeping mats on the floor. For this reason, long narrow rugs were the type most commonly created. Later this form was found to be very useful when employed as stair runners. Hamadan’s high altitudes and cool temperatures cause its sheep to produce exceptionally durable wool. The region’s weavers use this strong wool along with Turkish knotting techniques to produce flat hand woven Hamadan rugs and stair runners. Geometric patterns predominate, along with animal and floral motifs as the designs most typically seen on Hamadan rugs and stair runners. Occasionally, the famous Harati design is used on Hamadan rugs and stair runners. The Herati design is a depiction of fish and turtles from an old Mongol (Turkish) pattern. Another classic design is the Mahi design, which means fish in Farsi. Hamadan Stair runners will commonly use a repeating design of a flower centered inside a diamond shape. Curving leaves run outside of the diamond and parallel to the sides of the rug. Hamadan rugs and stair runners are boldly colored using natural vegetable dyes. Traditionally Hamadan rugs and stair runners employ predominantly deep reds and dark blues with ivory as a contrasting color. Modern rugs now feature a broader palette of green, blue, red, yellow, salmon, and rust. Hamadan rugs and stair runners will usually be woven on a cotton foundation, but occasionally will be made on goat hair. The rug pile of a Hamadan rug is always fine soft wool. Beautiful Hamadan rugs and stair runners will not only protect floors from wear and tear, but they will also provide additional safety by preventing slipping on stairs. Hand made tribal rugs harmonize with any décor, making them a perfect addition to any room in the house.
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