Changes in Iranian Weaving Art
The origin of carpets dates back to ancient times when humans sought to create a comfortable and pleasant living space. Iranian woven carpets are not only a symbol of the beauty and art of the people of this land but also reflect their patience and hard work in weaving these artistic creations.
The use of high-quality raw materials has given this art a special value and prestige. The first Iranian carpet, known as the famous “Pazyryk Carpet,” which dates back about 2,500 years, points to the adventure in the world of weaving and colorful designs. Iran is known as the cradle of the world’s carpets because throughout history, this land has always been a hub for skilled artists and weavers, and each city and region has created unique and distinct weavings. In this article on the Zollanvari website, we will explore the history and reasons behind this fame. Join us as we delve into the depths of this fascinating art.
History of Iranian Carpets Before Christ
Carpets hold a special and prominent place in Persian literature, and signs of this can be found from Ferdowsi’s *Shahnameh* to the works of contemporary poets. According to historical evidence, the first carpet is attributed to Iran, and in 1949, archaeologists discovered a carpet during their excavations in Pazyryk, which is recognized as a symbol of Iranian weaving art. Rodenko, a Russian archaeologist, dates this artifact to the 5th or early 4th century BC and emphasizes its similarities to Iranian carpets. He mentions the specific weaving techniques and patterns used in this carpet and speaks about its connection to Achaemenid and Assyrian cultures. This evidence allows us to take pride in the 2,500-year history of Iranian carpets. Throughout different periods before Islam, Iranian carpets were frequently mentioned in historical texts.
Woven Carpet
What Inspired the Designs and Patterns of Iranian Woven Carpets?
Initially, the designs of Iranian carpets mainly included geometric shapes that represented the rich Iranian art. With the Seljuk dominance over Iran and their influence in parts of Azerbaijan, Iranian artists created beautiful carpets inspired by Seljuk culture. With the arrival of Timur (Tamerlane) in Iran, widespread cultural changes occurred, which impacted the weaving and design of carpets. Gradually, geometric patterns gave way to curved and spiral designs, and natural elements such as flowers, bushes, birds, and animals entered the world of Iranian carpets. These transformations not only enhanced the beauty of carpets but also manifested Iran’s history and culture in the field of weaving art.
Naser al-Din Shah: Host of the First Iranian Carpet Exhibition
During the peak of Naser al-Din Shah’s reign, an extraordinary exhibition of Iranian carpet weaving art was held in Vienna, the capital of Austria, which became famous for its appreciation of art. In this event, precious and valuable carpets woven during the Safavid period were collected and displayed, resulting in an amazing outcome. All these artworks were sold to reputable European collectors. At a time when the royal treasury was empty due to financial crises, these Iranian carpets and their export to Europe revitalized the Qajar dynasty, and the revenue from this trade helped prevent the downfall of Naser al-Din Shah’s reign. Understanding the true value of this art, he sent the first shipments of carpets from Tabriz, Hamadan, and Kerman to European markets.
Final Word
The Iranian carpet, a symbol of art and beauty, dates back 2,500 years, and its first example is known as the “Pazyryk Carpet.” These woven masterpieces reflect the patience and efforts of the people of Iran, as well as the use of high-quality materials sourced from the land’s livestock. Archaeologists link the carpets to Achaemenid and Assyrian cultures. Carpets also hold a special place in Persian literature and are frequently mentioned in historical texts. If you are interested in the unique world of handmade carpets, feel free to visit our website to view many examples in different patterns and colors.