 Saveh
rigs originate from Saveh, located in northwestern Iran, just south of
Tehran and is home to the Shahsavan tribe. Shahsavan literally means
“For those who love the Shah” in Farsi and is a title bestowed upon
warriors in the 17th century who were defending the northern border of
Persia. The majority of Saveh rugs are small pieces and rug runner
styles as a result of being woven by nomadic people that used looms
that were compact, making them easy to dismantle and transport when
relocation became necessary. The rug runner style weavings were
primarily used as saddle bags and animal trappings in addition to
providing warm floor coverings in their tents. Saveh rugs have textiles
that frequently use the Soumak and Kilim weaves. Soumak is a flatweave
also referred to as weft wrapping that will produce a rug runner with a
herringbone effect that looks similar to embroidery work. Kilim is a
flatweave construction in which the weft yarns form the flat looped
face of the rug.
Among the
nomadic rug and rug runner styles, the finest quality patterns are
attributed to the Saveh. The distinguishing characteristic of Saveh
rugs is its rich burgundy or red center medallion that can stretch the
entire length of the rug and is almost always highlighted by a small
edging of a light ivory color. It is also common to see a small center
field and larger single border on Saveh rugs. Traditionally the
background colors on Saveh rugs or rug runners is a lush dark red
accented by blue, gold, green, and black. The warm and inviting color
palette is totally created by the local vegetation.
The foundation of Saveh rugs or rug runner is always cotton, while the
very durable pile is wool, provided by the local sheep. These beautiful
nomadic treasures are woven with skill as well as artistry and with
wool sturdy enough to withstand hundreds of years of wear.
|