TEHRAN – The Arxans of South Khorasan province of Iran will be taking part in Iraq’s Suleimaniya Exposition from May 20-26, the director of the province’s Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Bureau said.
Seyyed Ahmad Barabadi added that the event will be supported by the Handicraft Division and the Kermanshah Cultural Heritage Division, Chtn reported.
He said the artisans in South Holasan will display products containing woven and non-woven fabrics at special pavilions.
He also said the measure was part of a programme arranged by the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts to introduce and preserve Iranian handicrafts in the global market.
It shows the country’s continued efforts to promote cultural exports, he added.
South Horasan is famous for its exquisite rugs and carpets woven in various villages in eastern Iran, according to knowledge passed down from generation to generation.
South Horasan was a lively hub of carpet weaning during the Timrid era (1370–1507). The Timulid dynasty also ruled the city of Herat, which is very famous for its flower carpets.
The motifs and designs of the Herat Carpet gradually grew smaller and regularly, and transformed into the design they are today.
Some of the provincially famous carpet centres are the villages of Birjand city with most of the villages in the Drafsch, Mood, Gask, Nowzad, Salbishe, Behargard, Nougab, Dasgard and Gaenat regions.
The most common motifs for South Holasan carpet are “Lizemahi”, “Paisley”, “Lobby Sadi”, “Kareasbi” or horse head, “Keshti” or Four Seasons, “Moharamat”.
“Rise mahi” or small fish, also known in other cities as “mahi” or “mahi eh d’ar ham.” The difference between them is that diamonds accompany the Horasan carpet with flowers.
“Robee Sa’di” is one of the original motifs of the state and is known for its delicate Paisleys.
In all of these designs, the sun motif represents itself in a variety of forms, a characteristic found only on the South Holasan carpet.
Iranian hand-woven carpets are internationally sought after due to their delicate design and high quality. The medallion pattern is undoubtedly the most distinctive feature of all types of Persian rugs. Among Persian carpets, especially those of the classic era, medallions may represent open lotus flowers with several petals.
KD