ARDEBIL (Ardabil)

Ardebil is located in the province of eastern Azerbaijan east of Tabriz. In the same area another town called Meshkin is also known for its carpets but of the two towns, Ardebil is the larger and more important; it was the native town of king Safavaids, who reined over Iran in the 16th century when he built a mosque / mausoleum that lies at the centre of the town. The well known pair of carpets known as the 'Ardebil Carpets' dating back to 1542 are now, one in London and the other in California, were originally in the mosque.

The carpets and rugs produced today in Arbedil and Meshkin are strongly influenced by other rugs produced in other parts of Azerbaijan especially the village carpets with their geometrical designs, and the carpets of Tabriz, with medallions on Herati grounds. Wool or cotton is used for the warps and wefts. The pile is generally made of wool, even though there is a sizable production made of mixed silk/wool pile. Carpets are produced with sizes up to 10 sqm with geometrical designs, but often have delicate patterning, while a palette of strong colours is generally used. Another weaving centre which come within the general category of Ardebil is "Meshkin".

296 x 190 cm