Tabriz – Size: 290 x 395 cm

The fertile and vast of Azarbaijan is divided into two provinces. East and West Azarbaijan. Carpet weaving has never been popular in West Azarbaijan. On the contrary, in East Azarbaijan, the development of this industry has always been considerable and worthy of attention. In the last one hundred years, Azarbaijan Province has had its outstanding share in contributing to the expansion of the carpet industry. Normally all the carpets woven in Azarbaijan have Ghiordes knots with double-weft. They are durable and hard-wearing.

The city of Tabriz is situated 600 km west of Tehran and one of the largest cities in Iran and also the capital in the province of East Azerbajdzjan. The population comprising of the Azaris, who are the largest ethnic minority in Iran and speak the Turkish dialect. The city is old and has for centuries been a very important trading place and border station. Known attractions are the Blue Mosque and the giant bazaar.

The manufacturing of carpets today is extensive and the quality varies from excellent handicrafts to simple and cheap bazaar qualities. A good Tabriz has a short and rough pile. The patterns can consist of a centrally placed medallion surrounded by arabesques, weeping willows and cypresses. Another popular motif is the four seasons which describes the life of the Persian farmer during spring, summer, autumn and winter.

Click on the photo to enlarge