Ardebil Province Geographical
Area Ardebil province was previously considered part of East Azerbaijan province on geographical maps, but over the past three decades, it has become an independent province (Azarpad and Hashemi Razavi, 1372, p. 258). The province is bordered to the north by Iran and the Republic of Azerbaijan, to the east by the Talesh and Hashtrud mountains and Gilan province, to the south by Zanjan, and to the west by East Azerbaijan province.
Due to the mountainous nature of this province, its favorable climate, and geographical conditions, animal husbandry—especially sheep farming of various breeds—is widespread. The name Ardebil literally means "high place." In addition to the city of Ardebil , cities and villages such as Pileh, Sivar, Parsabad, Givi, Khalkhal, Germi, Meshgin Shahr, and Namin are part of Ardebil Province.
The rural residents and nomads, using sheep's wool and thread imported from Tabriz and other regions, are engaged in carpet weaving, which is a common and long-established craft in the area. Carpet weaving in the Ardebil region, due to its style and technique, as well as its historical roots, can be considered part of the Azerbaijani carpet weaving tradition, regardless of geographical boundaries.
Today, because carpet weaving is one of the most important sources of income for the local community and a significant production activity in Ardebil , this craft has flourished in the province. This boom has made Ardebil carpets highly sought after both domestically and internationally (Sabahi, 1390, p. 300).
Carpet weaving in Ardebil province can be divided into three categories: urban weaving, rural weaving, and nomadic weaving. Urban weaving is mainly centered in the city of Ardebil and is distinguished by the designs of the carpets produced, which often feature intricate patterns.
The dominant design in urban weaving in Ardebil is a repeated pattern known as the "Mahi" (fish) motif. In rural weaving, carpet production is widespread in most village carpets of Ardebil . The main period of activity for rural weaving corresponds to the agricultural off-season, from early autumn to late winter.
Therefore, with the arrival of warmer weather and the villagers' engagement in agriculture, carpet production decreases accordingly. Most of the weavers in rural areas are women and girls. Rural carpets are typically produced with simple, geometric designs.
The nomadic weaving sector is limited to the nomads who migrate to Ardebil during the warm season for summer pastures. In this sector, like in rural weaving, women and girls are the primary weavers. Carpets in this sector are not woven solely for income but are also made for personal use.
One characteristic of the carpets produced in this region is that all stages of production, from wool spinning to dyeing, are carried out by the nomads themselves, specifically by the women. In this sector, warping is done on small, horizontal looms, and the carpets produced have low density and knot counts. Additionally, the warp threads are made of wool, and these carpets are referred to as "all-wool" carpets (Bahrami, 1398).
Historical and Artistic Legacy of Ardebil
Ardebil , a city with a long and rich history of culture, has always been one of the significant centers of Iran due to its geographical location and historical importance, serving as a host to various civilizations.
Ancient History
- Pre-Islamic Era: The historical roots of Ardebil date back to pre-Islamic times. In ancient times, it was recognized as one of the key centers of Azerbaijan.
- Islamic Era: With the advent of Islam in Iran, Ardebil maintained its significance and became one of the important centers of Shi'ism in the region.
- Safavid Dynasty: One of the most notable historical events for Ardebil is the rise of the Safavid dynasty. Sheikh Safi al-Din Ardebil i, the great ancestor of this dynasty, is buried in the city, and his mausoleum has become a major pilgrimage site for Shiites.
- Qajar Era and Beyond: During the Qajar period and afterward, Ardebil was recognized as one of the significant cultural and commercial cities of Iran.
A Treasure Trove of Historical and Artistic Monuments
Due to its rich history, Ardebil is home to numerous valuable historical and artistic monuments, including:
- Sheikh Safi al-Din Ardebil i's Mausoleum: This magnificent mausoleum is one of the most beautiful examples of Islamic architecture in Iran and is of great historical and artistic importance.
- Jameh Mosque of Ardebil : This ancient mosque is one of the oldest in Iran and features a simple yet beautiful architectural style.
- Shah Abbas Caravanserai: Built during the Safavid era, this caravanserai is a fine example of Iranian caravanserai architecture.
- Roudshir Castle: This historic castle is one of the oldest in Iran and is significant for its military architecture.
- Museums: Ardebil has several museums that house valuable historical and artistic artifacts.
A Rich and Diverse Culture
The people of Ardebil have a rich and diverse culture, rooted in the region's history and geography. Ardebil ’s handicrafts, music, literature, and local cuisine reflect the cultural identity of the region.
Natural Attractions
In addition to its historical and artistic sites, Ardebil boasts stunning natural attractions. Mount Sabalan, one of the most beautiful mountains in Iran, is located near Ardebil . The hot springs of Sarein are another major natural attraction in the region.
The Tradition of Carpet Weaving in Ardebil
Carpet weaving in Ardebil has deep roots in the city's ancient history and is one of its most important handicrafts and arts. Ardebil carpets are renowned worldwide for their beautiful designs, vibrant colors, and durable craftsmanship, representing an ancient art form.
A Brief History of Carpet Weaving in Ardebil
Safavid Era: Peak of Flourishing
- With the rise of the Safavid dynasty, carpet weaving in Iran, especially in Ardebil , reached its peak.
- The famous Ardebil carpet, now housed in the Victoria and Albert Museum, is one of the masterpieces of this era, showcasing the unparalleled craftsmanship of Ardebil 's weavers.
Qajar Era: Relative Decline
- During the Qajar period, carpet weaving in Ardebil experienced a relative decline.
- Modern Era: Revival and Innovation
- In the modern era, with renewed attention to handicrafts, carpet weaving in Ardebil has been revitalized.
- Ardebil 's weavers, inspired by traditional designs and blending them with new patterns, now produce carpets with diverse designs and colors.
Colors and Dyeing of Ardebil Carpets
The carpets of the Ardebil region do not feature a wide variety of colors and are limited to a specific palette, which is evident in the woven carpets of this area. Historically, the colors of Ardebil carpets were derived from natural dyes, and some carpets were woven using the natural colors of wool from sheep, such as black, brown, and cream.
These carpets were woven without additional dyeing. The primary color of Ardebil ’s carpet backgrounds was often copper, though over time, this has shifted to a milky hue (Erbabi, 1399).
Currently, carpets from the Ardebil region are dyed using synthetic dyes, although natural dyeing is still practiced among some nomadic communities. The dominant colors of Ardebil carpets tend to follow the styles of Tabriz carpets weavings and frequently feature shades of red, brown, cream, and dark blue.
The color schemes of Ardebil carpets are often presented in turquoise, white, beige, cream, vermilion, dark blue, and light green backgrounds. Additionally, the colors in Ardebil designs are generally brighter and more vibrant (Nasiri, 1389, p. 127).
Designs and Patterns of Ardebil Carpets
It appears that rural carpets from the Ardebil region have transitioned into urban-style carpets over the past few decades. The older rural carpets of Ardebil , which have a longer tradition, display patterns influenced by the nomadic and tribal designs of the Turkish tribes across Azerbaijan and the Caucasus.
The patterns found in Ardebil 's rural carpets, especially from the surrounding villages, generally feature double and triple lozenge-shaped medallions, which were often woven on both small and large rugs. The borders of these carpets typically showcase eight-petaled flowers, surrounded by wide lines known as "pen-box" motifs (Sabahi, 1390, p. 300).
In Ardebil Province, carpets are woven in various sizes, including *qalicheh* (small rugs), *kalgi* (runner rugs), and *kenareh* (long narrow rugs). Among the nomads and rural communities, geometric and village-style patterns are common, while in cities, well-known designs like *Lechek-Toranj* (corner-medallion) with curvilinear and scrolling *eslimi* motifs are popular. In the southern regions of Ardebil , especially in villages such as Bakhshayesh, carpet weaving has a longer history compared to other parts of the province.
The patterns and motifs used in the Ardebil region largely follow designs from neighboring areas. Famous designs like the *Herati Caucasian* and *Guba* are among the most prominent patterns woven in Ardebil and the surrounding areas. Other notable designs in Ardebil carpets include the *Qeychi* (scissors), *Tek-Gol* (single flower), *Setareh* (star), *Zirkhaki* (antique style), *Kalleh Ghooch* (ram's head), as well as *Qarabaq* and *Lechek-Toranj* patterns. Additionally, the design and color schemes in Ardebil carpets often bear the influence of a designer named Vosough (Yassavoli, 1375, p. 1876).
Weaving and Size of Ardebil Carpets
In the production of carpets in the Ardebil region, cotton yarn is typically used for the warp and weft. Recently, carpets with silk foundations, known as *Kaf-e Abrisham*, have also been produced. The knot density of these carpets is approximately 1,500 knots per decimeter, and the knots in most of the weaving areas in Ardebil Province, except for some northern parts bordering Gilan, are of the symmetrical type. Traditionally, carpets in Ardebil are woven with two wefts. In the last fifty years, other types of textiles such as *souf* weaving and silk-based carpets have become more popular. Additionally, kilim, *jajim*, and *verni* weaving are also common in this region.
Many of the carpets produced in Ardebil are exported abroad, with countries like Germany and Italy being consistent buyers. The pile of Ardebil carpets is made of high-quality, shiny, though somewhat coarse, wool. These carpets typically have long piles, making them feel thick and substantial. High-quality old samples of carpets from this region are rarely found, but those that exist are of medium to high quality. Urban carpet weaving in Ardebil generally uses the *full-lool* or *half-lool* techniques, while some nomads who have migrated to Ardebil weave *flat* carpets. In the past, rural Ardebil carpets were mostly woven in the *half-lool* style, but today, due to market demand, they are more commonly produced in the *full-lool* technique (Erbabi, 1399).
Ardebil ’s so-called “market carpets,” which are famous for their *Saneh* weave (with *Herati* motifs), are single-wefted, and the knots are tied onto the warp very softly. While this soft weaving allows the carpet to grow quickly on the loom, it reduces its density and durability significantly. Today, village-woven carpets in Ardebil are mostly produced in small pieces, such as *qalichehs* (small rugs), with low *raj* counts (knot density), and in larger pieces, like *kalgi* (5-meter-long carpets), known as *Miane* in the region. Long carpets, referred to as *kenareh*, are also woven here (Azarpad & Heshmati Razavi, 1372, p. 258).
Master Designers of Ardebil Carpets
Due to the great age of some Ardebil carpets and the lack of designer records from those times, it is impossible to identify all the designers precisely. However, by studying the history of Ardebil carpets and examining the features of various designs, several prominent designers can be recognized.
1. Local Designers:
Many Ardebil carpets were designed by local craftsmen, who drew inspiration from the region’s natural landscapes and cultural heritage.
2. Safavid Era Designers:
During the Safavid era, carpet weaving reached its peak in Iran. Many of the valuable carpets now housed in museums were woven during this period, and some of the leading designers of the time likely contributed to the design of Ardebil carpets.
3. Qajar Era Designers:
Carpet weaving experienced a relative decline during the Qajar period, with only a handful of designers creating significant works of art.
In recent years, the brand *Vosoughi* has been one of the top producers of authentic Ardebil carpets. Ultimately, Ardebil carpets are a valuable legacy of Iranian artistry and creativity. The designers of these carpets, using beautiful patterns and attractive colors, have created masterpieces that have been admired for centuries. Although it is not possible to identify all the designers, studying the characteristics of different designs and the history of carpet weaving in Iran helps us better appreciate these artistic works.
Caring for Hand-Woven Ardebil Carpets
As artistic creations, hand-woven Ardebil carpets require special care to maintain their beauty, durability, and quality. Below are some key tips for preserving these carpets:
1. Cleaning the Carpet
- Quickly absorb stains: If any stains appear on the carpet, immediately absorb the stain using a clean, dry, or damp cloth. Avoid rubbing or wiping the stain.
- Use mild cleaning agents: For more stubborn stains, use mild cleaning solutions like white vinegar, baking soda with dish soap, or specialized carpet cleaners. Always test the product on a small, inconspicuous area of the carpet first to ensure it does not damage the color.
- Professional cleaning: If necessary, take the carpet to a reputable carpet cleaner specializing in hand-woven rugs.
- Prevent spills: Try to avoid spilling food and drinks on the carpet.
- Vacuum regularly: Vacuum both sides of the carpet at least once a week to remove dust.
2. Carpet Maintenance
- Keep away from direct sunlight: Direct sunlight can fade the colors and damage the pile of the carpet. Place the carpet in a location with indirect light whenever possible.
- Humidity: Humidity is a major factor in carpet deterioration. Avoid placing the carpet in humid areas, and maintain a moderate level of moisture in the environment.
- Insects: Carpet beetles and moths can damage the carpet. Regularly inspect the carpet and use appropriate insecticides if necessary.
3. Moving and Transporting the Carpet
- Roll carefully: When rolling up the carpet, use a sturdy tube and roll it gently.
- Proper packaging: Place the carpet in a clean, dry plastic cover and secure it tightly.
- Careful transport: Carry the carpet horizontally using strong straps. Avoid shaking or dropping the carpet.
Additional Tips
- Never use bleach or harsh chemicals.
- Avoid dragging the carpet across the floor.
- Keep the carpet away from direct heat sources like heaters.
- Regularly check the carpet for any signs of damage.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your hand-woven Ardebil carpet for many years and preserve its value.
Price of Ardebil Carpets: A Variable Factor Based on Several Criteria
The price of an Ardebil carpet, like any hand-woven carpet, depends on numerous factors, and there is no fixed price. Some of the most important factors affecting the price of Ardebil carpets include:
1. Wool quality: Sheep, goat, camel, or a combination of these types of wool can be used in weaving carpets, each with different characteristics and prices.
2. Weave density: The number of knots per square meter, or density, impacts the fineness and price of the carpet. The higher the density, the more delicate and expensive the carpet.
3. Design and pattern: Complex and intricate designs increase the price. Popular traditional carpets Ardebil patterns like *Mahi*, *Toranj*, and *Lechek-Toranj* are among the most valuable and sought-after designs.
4. Carpet size: The larger the carpet, the higher the price.
5. Color scheme: The use of rare and natural dyes increases the carpet’s price.
6. Age of the carpet: Older, antique carpets are generally more valuable.
7. Reputation of the weaver: Carpets woven by renowned weavers hold greater value.
8. Overall condition: The carpet’s condition, including any signs of wear, stains, or repairs, impacts its value.
Estimating the Price of Ardebil Carpets
To estimate the approximate price of an Ardebil carpet, consider the following:
1. Consult experts: The best way to determine the exact price of a carpet is to consult carpet experts or reputable sellers. They can assess the carpet and provide a precise valuation.
2. Market research: Visit carpet stores, exhibitions, and online platforms to compare prices of similar carpets.
3. Compare with similar carpets: Comparing your desired carpet with similar ones in terms of material, design, size, and density can help you arrive at an approximate price.
Important Points When Buying Ardebil Carpets
- Thoroughly inspect the carpet before purchasing: Pay attention to the wool quality, weave density, design, color scheme, and overall condition.
- Buy from reputable sellers: Ensure the authenticity and quality of the carpet by purchasing from authorized dealers.
- Obtain a certificate of authenticity: Make sure to receive a certificate of authenticity from the seller.
Buying Ardebil Carpets Online
At *rugeast.com*, you can easily purchase a variety of hand-woven Ardebil carpets. One of the advantages of shopping online at rugeast.com is the ability to view a wide selection of Ardebil carpets and easily compare their prices and materials. This allows you to find the perfect size, design, and color to match your décor.
The site strives to offer authentic Ardebil carpets sourced directly from the region and its villages at competitive prices, providing a rich collection for your selection.
