c1970s Antique Geometric Persian Nahavand Runner 3.4x12.0
NAHAVAND is an ancient city located 150 km south of Hamedan in the south of the province. It was one of the ancient centers of the pre-Aryan tribes and its golden age was during the Achaemenid and Sassanid periods. Yazdegerd III, the last of the Sassanid rulers, built a castle in Nahavand as a summer residence. Nahavand was the site of the final war between the Iranian Sassanid troops and Arab Muslim warriors. There are still remains of the ancient Nahavand on hill slopesl. Precious objects unearthed in the "GIAN HILL" region reveal that prehistoric people civilized with highly developed arts and culture lived in this region. Achaemenid and Sassanid remains have also been found in the "GARA GHOGHA" village in the vicinity of Nahavand. This city has old neighborhoods with urban establishments to meet the people's requirements. Nahavand is a cold city that produces agricultural products like grains, fruits and famous handicrafts like rugs. The sights of the city are as follows: • Hill of Giyan, dating back to the 4th century • Bath of Hadj Agha Torab • Mausoleum of Baba Pir • Fire-temple of Ghara Choqa
Nahavand rugs and carpets have nomadic and geometric patterns that usually consist of a single medallion set in a background full of small motifs surrounding the medallion. Sometimes the famous, Herati design may be seen. These rugs are made of high quality. These rugs and carpets are usually run smaller ranging in size from 2x3 to 5x8 feet due to the use of horizontal looms. It is very difficult for weavers to make a larger sized carpet on horizontal looms. Another important characteristic of the Nahavand rug is its coloration. Rusty reds and khakis on a dark blue background are the main colors used of this region. There some rugs from Nahavand that do not follow this coloration, but all Nahavand rugs do have a very shiny appearance. They are made of a very soft, shiny wool and have a thin, thick pile. The warps of the foundation are mostly cotton and the single-wefts are either cotton or wool. Weavers in Nahavand use symmetrical, Turkish knots. Due to the fact that these rugs are highly prized in the West and are very durable pieces, they tend to be a little higher in price than other pieces in the vicinity. They tend to create a rich, cheerful look.
