A journey of discovery to understand and appreciate kilims, important material documents that tell us not only about the history of textiles, but also about human origins.
The kilim is an unwritten document that can be read by interpreting the symbolism of the forms reproduced in its fabric. In the history of carpets, these geometric patterns, which are inextricably linked to the weaving technique, have evolved, resulting in ever-more sophisticated and complex designs, reflecting the traditions of the various tribal communities that create them, together with their religion and particular set of beliefs and superstitions. The book examines the history of these carpets, in a detailed and searching way, thanks to the knowledge of Taher Sabahi and the expertise gained by him over many years working in the sector. The introduction looks at the origins and the development of flat fabrics, the most significant archaeological discoveries in this field, how they were used and their technical aspects. The book looks at different areas of production and workshops, which, together with a rich series of illustrations, offers an overview of the main types of kilim, with examples from all over the world. The author’s suggests that this art form should be used as a consultation tool by carpet collectors and dealers alike.