Mousel
rugs originate from Mousel, a Kurdish city that today is actually
located in Iraq. The Kurds, living in western and southwestern Iran,
northern Iraq, southern Turkey, and in northeastern Syria, are known
for the excellent traditional rugs that they weave. Mousel rugs are
tribal carpets made in the Kurdish nomadic districts of northwestern
Iran. They are typical of the tribal weaving style of the region, woven
with cheerful, bright, rich colors and striking geometric designs.
Weaving Mousel rugs is an arduous process for the nomads who relocate
frequently in order to follow the grazing season. They weave diligently
for months on end using extremely crude floor looms which must be well
secured and transported each time they move on. These very talented
artisans create Mousel rugs using Turkish knots.
The distinguishing characteristics of Mousel rugs are their very bold
geometric patterns. However, unlike other Kurdish traditional rugs, the
Mousel weavings may include some semi- curvilinear patterns, although
the overall effect will still be considered geometric. The traditional
rugs of Mousel reflect its population with Caucasian stars, diagonal
bands, and barber pole stripes in the designs. A popular pattern
featured on Mousel traditional rugs is a paneled garden design
comprised of square, rectangular, diamond shape, or hexagonal
compartments filled with a floral motif. The patterns tend to be very
crowded and they are extremely bright and colorful featuring deep red,
bright blue, yellow, green, brown, ochre, and beige. The Mousel weavers
use local wool and vegetable dyes.
The warps on Mousel rugs are mostly cotton, while the wefts are either
cotton or wool. Although they are available in many sizes, most
frequently they are mid-size (4’ x 6’ to 8’ x 10’). Mousel rugs are
extremely sturdy and able to withstand even the heaviest traffic,
making them ideal choices for kitchens, family rooms, and dens. And,
best of all, they will improve with age.