Yalameh rugs are called the rainbow rugs of southern Iran, known for their bright colors, geometric designs, and excellent craftsmanship. They have roots in the Qashqai tribe, one of Iran's well-known nomadic groups, and are woven in the Fars Province. These rugs carry both history and artistry, making them special in the world of Persian carpets.
History and Origin
Yalameh rugs come from the Yalameh Tireh (subgroup) of the Amaleh Tayefeh (clan) of the Qashqai tribe. The Qashqai people are nomads who have lived in southern Iran for centuries, known for their weaving traditions and colorful designs.
These rugs are primarily woven in and around the village of Aliabad in Fars Province. In the past, rugs from this region were called Shekarloo. Today, Shekarloo rugs are rare, and their designs have evolved into what we now know as Yalameh rugs. While both are vibrant, blue tones are more prominent in modern Yalameh designs.
Craftsmanship
Yalameh rugs are traditionally woven on horizontal looms, a method still used today. These rugs are made with two wefts and typically feature the Persian knot, though the Turkish knot is occasionally used as well. Colorful selvages, often in two or three shades, are a distinctive characteristic of these rugs.
The knot density of Yalameh rugs generally ranges from 18 to 31 raj (knots per 7 cm), but higher-quality and custom pieces from Aliabad may reach 35 to 41 raj. Yalameh rugs are woven in various sizes, including 6-meter carpets, zar-o-nim (1.5 meters), 12-meter carpets, and runners in multiple dimensions.
Traditionally, both the warp and weft are made of wool, although newer rugs sometimes incorporate cotton for the foundation. The vibrant colors are achieved using natural dyes, giving the rugs their distinct and enduring palette.
Design and Patterns
Yalameh rugs are celebrated for their intricate geometric designs and vibrant colors. The patterns of these rugs fall into three main categories:
Toranji (Single Medallion)
This pattern features a single row of diamond-shaped medallions running lengthwise through the center of the rug. The medallions are adorned with serrated edges, giving them a distinctive, dynamic appearance.
Shekarloo (Double Medallion)
Similar to the Toranji pattern, this design includes two parallel rows of diamond-shaped medallions aligned along the rug’s length. The medallions in this pattern are also decorated with serrated edges, creating a more elaborate and layered visual effect.
Alvan (Colorful Panel)
The Alvan pattern emerged from a fusion of Qashqai designs (like Toranji and Shekarloo) with the Khesti motifs common in rugs from the Chaharmahal region. This design places diamond-shaped medallions within square or rectangular panels, resulting in a more structured yet colorful composition that showcases the creativity of Yalameh weavers.
These three patterns highlight the Qashqai people's skill in adapting and innovating traditional designs, reflecting their rich artistic heritage and deep connection to their environment.
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