Hamadan Carpet

Hamadan Handwoven Carpets: Art, History, and Industry

Iranian handwoven carpets are known worldwide as one of the country’s most distinguished cultural and artistic treasures. Among the various types of Persian carpets, those from Hamadan hold a prominent place due to their unique characteristics. These carpets, beyond their beauty and quality, also embody the history and culture of the Hamadan region. This article provides an in-depth look at the history, knotting techniques, exclusive designs, materials, weaving process, colors, and the economic and commercial aspects of Hamadan’s handwoven carpets.

Hamedan Carpets

History of Hamadan Carpets

Hamadan, one of the oldest cities in Iran, has a long history of carpet weaving. The carpet industry in this province has grown steadily throughout history, and Hamadan has always been one of the major centers of carpet production in Iran.

The carpets of Hamadan were highly regarded during various historical periods in Iran, including the Sassanid, Safavid, and Qajar dynasties. During the Safavid period, particularly under Shah Abbas I, Hamadan became a major commercial hub. At this time, Hamadan carpets, as luxury and export items, were shipped to many European, Central Asian, and Russian markets.

The reputation of Hamadan carpets can be attributed to their high quality, the use of fine raw materials such as wool and silk, and their distinctive designs, which continue to be a hallmark of the region’s craftsmanship.

Hamadan carpets are renowned for their durability and beauty, primarily due to the high-quality wool and, in some cases, silk used in their production. The wool from the native sheep of the region is prized for its softness and strength, contributing to the overall resilience and longevity of the carpets.
In addition to wool, some of Hamadan’s high-end carpets incorporate silk, which adds a luxurious sheen and a soft texture to the final product. This combination of wool and silk makes Hamadan carpets not only durable but also visually stunning.
One of the distinguishing features of Hamadan carpets is the use of natural dyes. These carpets are typically dyed using plant-based and natural colors, which are both environmentally friendly and long-lasting. Common colors include red, blue, cream, yellow, green, and brown, all derived from natural sources such as pomegranate skins, indigo, and various local plants and flowers.

The type of knot used in Hamadan carpets is another key element that contributes to their quality and durability. Most Hamadan carpets are woven using the Persian knot, also known as the Turkish knot. This type of knot is simple to execute but extremely strong, making it ideal for producing durable and precise designs. The Persian knot is tied by looping the yarn over two warps and then securing it in place with a special tool, such as a comb or hook. This knot ensures that the carpet’s design is clear and the structure remains strong over time, even with heavy use. Hamadan carpets are traditionally woven on horizontal looms, which are available in various sizes depending on the dimensions of the carpet and the type of design. Skilled weavers use these looms to carefully position wool or silk threads into precise knots, crafting intricate and detailed designs.

Exclusive Designs and Patterns of Hamadan Carpets

Hamadan Carpet

Hamadan carpets are renowned for their diverse and rich patterns, which reflect the cultural heritage and natural beauty of the region. These carpets feature a variety of designs, from geometric and floral motifs to more intricate arabesque patterns, all inspired by the area’s rich history and the surrounding nature.

One of the most famous and widely used patterns in Hamadan carpets is the “medallion” design. This design typically features a central medallion surrounded by floral or geometric motifs, which creates a harmonious and symmetrical layout. The medallion is often surrounded by repeating patterns of smaller elements, which enhance the overall complexity and aesthetic beauty of the carpet.

Floral patterns are also very common in Hamadan carpets, with designs that include roses, lilies, and other native flowers. These patterns are often intricately woven and use vibrant natural colors, giving the carpets a unique and striking appearance.

In addition to medallions and floral designs, geometric patterns are also frequently seen in Hamadan carpets. These patterns can include diamonds, squares, and other shapes, arranged in a way that emphasizes symmetry and balance.

Materials and Dyeing Process in Hamadan Carpets

Hamadan Carpet

The raw materials used in Hamadan carpets, particularly the wool, are of exceptional quality. The wool is sourced from local sheep, which are raised in the region’s fertile pastures. The wool’s natural softness, durability, and resistance to wear make it ideal for creating long-lasting carpets.

Dyeing plays an essential role in the creation of Hamadan carpets. Traditionally, the dyes used are natural and derived from local plants, fruits, and minerals. For instance, the rich red color found in many Hamadan carpets is often obtained from pomegranate skins, while blue can be sourced from indigo plants. Other common colors, such as yellow and green, are derived from a variety of local plants and flowers.

The use of natural dyes ensures that the colors of Hamadan carpets remain vibrant and do not fade over time. This is one of the reasons why these carpets are considered to be of such high quality, as the natural dyes contribute to the longevity and beauty of the final product.

While traditional dyeing methods are still widely used in Hamadan, some carpet manufacturers now also use synthetic dyes. However, natural dyes remain a signature feature of many Hamadan carpets, contributing to their uniqueness and value.

Hamedan Carpets
The specifications of Hamadan carpets are as follows:

The raw materials used in Hamadan carpets consist of cotton warp and weft and wool pile (hand-spun).

Design and patterns: The most dominant design in Hamadan carpets is the “Lachak Toranj,” which is drawn with broken and somewhat semi-circular lines. Other designs include: “Afshan” and “Vaghira.”Hamadan rural carpets are simpler than most tribal carpets of Iran. The most common designs woven in rural areas include:
Simple fish patterns, Lachak Toranj, and interwoven fish patterns.Lachak Toranj with a red background, broken fish (Vafs village).Lachak Toranj with a white background and fish (Pishkhur village).Bouquet, Khamsa, and standard patterns (Ozan Deh).Flower, onion, and Qara Daghi designs (Hajilu area).Simple field with or without a medallion (Biyokabad).Various fish and armlet patterns (Asadabad).

The typical dimensions of Hamadan carpets are primarily small-sized (zar’ and a half / zar and a quarter). One type of fine weave, woven in Kelli size, is well-known and famous. Other sizes, such as side borders, two-zari, five-quarter, kharak, cushion covers, rug-covers, and prayer mats, are also woven in Hamadan and offered in the market. In terms of market demand, two-zari and quarter-sized carpets are highly sought after in Hamadan, while people do not show much interest in other sizes. However, contemporary urban-style Hamadan carpets come in larger dimensions, such as 6, 9, and 12 meters, and even in larger sizes in some cases.

The Market for Hamadan Handwoven Carpets

Hamadan carpets are highly regarded in both domestic and international markets. Due to their high quality, intricate designs, and use of natural dyes, these carpets have become sought-after luxury items in global markets. They are particularly popular in Europe, North America, and the Middle East, where they are often considered to be fine examples of Persian craftsmanship.

In addition to the domestic Iranian market, Hamadan carpets are also exported to numerous countries. They have a strong presence in prestigious carpet exhibitions and showrooms worldwide, and they are known for their ability to combine tradition with modern design elements.

However, the Hamadan carpet industry faces several challenges. One of the main issues is the decreasing number of skilled artisans. As younger generations move away from traditional crafts in search of more modern careers, the supply of experienced weavers has dwindled. Furthermore, the rise of machine-made carpets has also created competition for handwoven carpets, which are often more expensive due to the labor-intensive nature of their production.

Despite these challenges, Hamadan carpets continue to thrive in the global marketplace due to their unmatched quality, beauty, and the reputation of Persian carpet weaving.

Hamadan handwoven carpets are among the finest examples of Persian craftsmanship. Their durability, intricate designs, and use of high-quality materials make them highly sought after both in Iran and abroad. These carpets, with their unique knotting techniques, natural dyes, and striking patterns, are a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Hamadan region. To ensure the continued success and growth of the Hamadan carpet industry, it is essential to invest in training skilled artisans, promote the cultural and artistic value of handwoven carpets, and expand market opportunities for these exquisite works of art. Hamadan handwoven carpets, as one of Iran’s treasured cultural assets, are poised to continue their legacy as luxurious, high-quality products in the global market.

Conclusion
Hamadan Carpet

Hamadan Handwoven Carpets: Art, History, and Industry

Iranian handwoven carpets are known worldwide as one of the country’s most distinguished cultural and artistic treasures. Among the various types of Persian carpets, those from Hamadan hold a prominent place due to their unique characteristics. These carpets, beyond their beauty and quality, also embody the history and culture of the Hamadan region. This article provides an in-depth look at the history, knotting techniques, exclusive designs, materials, weaving process, colors, and the economic and commercial aspects of Hamadan’s handwoven carpets.

Hamedan Carpets

History of Hamadan Carpets

Hamadan, one of the oldest cities in Iran, has a long history of carpet weaving. The carpet industry in this province has grown steadily throughout history, and Hamadan has always been one of the major centers of carpet production in Iran.

The carpets of Hamadan were highly regarded during various historical periods in Iran, including the Sassanid, Safavid, and Qajar dynasties. During the Safavid period, particularly under Shah Abbas I, Hamadan became a major commercial hub. At this time, Hamadan carpets, as luxury and export items, were shipped to many European, Central Asian, and Russian markets.

The reputation of Hamadan carpets can be attributed to their high quality, the use of fine raw materials such as wool and silk, and their distinctive designs, which continue to be a hallmark of the region’s craftsmanship.

The type of knot used in Hamadan carpets is another key element that contributes to their quality and durability. Most Hamadan carpets are woven using the Persian knot, also known as the Turkish knot. This type of knot is simple to execute but extremely strong, making it ideal for producing durable and precise designs. The Persian knot is tied by looping the yarn over two warps and then securing it in place with a special tool, such as a comb or hook. This knot ensures that the carpet’s design is clear and the structure remains strong over time, even with heavy use. Hamadan carpets are traditionally woven on horizontal looms, which are available in various sizes depending on the dimensions of the carpet and the type of design. Skilled weavers use these looms to carefully position wool or silk threads into precise knots, crafting intricate and detailed designs.

One of the key features of Ardabil carpets is the type of knot used in their weaving. The most common knot used in these carpets is the Persian knot, which is the same knot found in many other Iranian carpets. The Persian knot is favored for its simplicity and strength, making it ideal for creating durable and long-lasting carpets.
The use of the Persian knot ensures that Ardabil carpets are not only strong but also flexible. These knots are woven in such a way that they create precise and beautiful designs, contributing both to the durability and aesthetic appeal of the final carpet.

Exclusive Designs and Patterns of Hamadan Carpets

Hamadan carpets are renowned for their diverse and rich patterns, which reflect the cultural heritage and natural beauty of the region. These carpets feature a variety of designs, from geometric and floral motifs to more intricate arabesque patterns, all inspired by the area’s rich history and the surrounding nature.

One of the most famous and widely used patterns in Hamadan carpets is the “medallion” design. This design typically features a central medallion surrounded by floral or geometric motifs, which creates a harmonious and symmetrical layout. The medallion is often surrounded by repeating patterns of smaller elements, which enhance the overall complexity and aesthetic beauty of the carpet.

Exclusive Designs and Patterns of Hamadan Carpets

Floral patterns are also very common in Hamadan carpets, with designs that include roses, lilies, and other native flowers. These patterns are often intricately woven and use vibrant natural colors, giving the carpets a unique and striking appearance.

In addition to medallions and floral designs, geometric patterns are also frequently seen in Hamadan carpets. These patterns can include diamonds, squares, and other shapes, arranged in a way that emphasizes symmetry and balance.

Materials and Dyeing Process in Hamadan Carpets

The raw materials used in Hamadan carpets, particularly the wool, are of exceptional quality. The wool is sourced from local sheep, which are raised in the region’s fertile pastures. The wool’s natural softness, durability, and resistance to wear make it ideal for creating long-lasting carpets.
Dyeing plays an essential role in the creation of Hamadan carpets. Traditionally, the dyes used are natural and derived from local plants, fruits, and minerals. For instance, the rich red color found in many Hamadan carpets is often obtained from pomegranate skins, while blue can be sourced from indigo plants. Other common colors, such as yellow and green, are derived from a variety of local plants and flowers.

Hamedan Carpets
The specifications of Hamadan carpets are as follows:

The raw materials used in Hamadan carpets consist of cotton warp and weft and wool pile (hand-spun).

Design and patterns: The most dominant design in Hamadan carpets is the “Lachak Toranj,” which is drawn with broken and somewhat semi-circular lines. Other designs include: “Afshan” and “Vaghira.”Hamadan rural carpets are simpler than most tribal carpets of Iran. The most common designs woven in rural areas include:
Simple fish patterns, Lachak Toranj, and interwoven fish patterns.Lachak Toranj with a red background, broken fish (Vafs village).Lachak Toranj with a white background and fish (Pishkhur village).Bouquet, Khamsa, and standard patterns (Ozan Deh).Flower, onion, and Qara Daghi designs (Hajilu area).Simple field with or without a medallion (Biyokabad).Various fish and armlet patterns (Asadabad).

The typical dimensions of Hamadan carpets are primarily small-sized (zar’ and a half / zar and a quarter). One type of fine weave, woven in Kelli size, is well-known and famous. Other sizes, such as side borders, two-zari, five-quarter, kharak, cushion covers, rug-covers, and prayer mats, are also woven in Hamadan and offered in the market. In terms of market demand, two-zari and quarter-sized carpets are highly sought after in Hamadan, while people do not show much interest in other sizes. However, contemporary urban-style Hamadan carpets come in larger dimensions, such as 6, 9, and 12 meters, and even in larger sizes in some cases.

The Market for Hamadan Handwoven Carpets

Hamadan carpets are highly regarded in both domestic and international markets. Due to their high quality, intricate designs, and use of natural dyes, these carpets have become sought-after luxury items in global markets. They are particularly popular in Europe, North America, and the Middle East, where they are often considered to be fine examples of Persian craftsmanship.

In addition to the domestic Iranian market, Hamadan carpets are also exported to numerous countries. They have a strong presence in prestigious carpet exhibitions and showrooms worldwide, and they are known for their ability to combine tradition with modern design elements.

However, the Hamadan carpet industry faces several challenges. One of the main issues is the decreasing number of skilled artisans. As younger generations move away from traditional crafts in search of more modern careers, the supply of experienced weavers has dwindled. Furthermore, the rise of machine-made carpets has also created competition for handwoven carpets, which are often more expensive due to the labor-intensive nature of their production.

Despite these challenges, Hamadan carpets continue to thrive in the global marketplace due to their unmatched quality, beauty, and the reputation of Persian carpet weaving.

Hamadan handwoven carpets are among the finest examples of Persian craftsmanship. Their durability, intricate designs, and use of high-quality materials make them highly sought after both in Iran and abroad. These carpets, with their unique knotting techniques, natural dyes, and striking patterns, are a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Hamadan region. To ensure the continued success and growth of the Hamadan carpet industry, it is essential to invest in training skilled artisans, promote the cultural and artistic value of handwoven carpets, and expand market opportunities for these exquisite works of art. Hamadan handwoven carpets, as one of Iran’s treasured cultural assets, are poised to continue their legacy as luxurious, high-quality products in the global market.

Conclusion