c1940s CAUCASIAN DESIGN PERSIAN MESHKIN RUNNER 3.0x9.8
MESHKIN or MESHKIN-SHAHR is a small village in the mountains of Azerbaijan located west of Ardabil and north of Mount Sabalan. The old name for Meshkin was "KHEYAV." It has cool summers and cold winters. The rich pastures of this region are largely populated by pastoral nomads. Although many people in Meshkin are engaged in handicrafts, the economy is mainly dependent on agriculture and animal husbandry. Being an ancient town, Meshkin-Shahr's historical monuments are of great significance. The following are among the well-known ones: • Castle of Arshoq • Mausoleum of Shaikh Heydar • Petrograph belonging to Shapur II (Sassanid Dynasty King). The most well-known mineral springs in this region are the springs of Googerdi and Qotoor Sooyee on the slopes of Mt. Sabalan, and the springs of Shabil, Aqsoo, Malek Soo'i and Ilandoo. In reference to carpet weaving, Meshkin usually create runners which are simple and geometric. After the invasion of the Mongols in the 13th century, rug weaving became more bold with the use of Turkish knots. The patterns consist of diamond-shaped medallions all which have geometric, Turko-Persian influence. The quality of Meshkin rugs and carpets is good. These rugs and carpets come in different sizes, but the majority of them runners. Dark reds and bold blues are the predominant colors. Contrasting colors may include the following: warm reds, olives, turquoises, navy blues, and taupes. Uneven coloring is a characteristic of Meshkins due to "abrash." Abrash is a natural occurence due to how a wool absorbs a dye. Wool may be taken from the same sheep, however, every strand of wool, especially in this area, is different in how it absorbs natural, vegetable-dyes. Meshkins are made of a rough wool and have a thick, tight pile. The warps of the foundation are made mostly of cotton; the wefts are made of wool. Weavers in Meshkin use Turkish knots. Meshkin runners are very popular in the West and are commonly used as stair runners. These pieces can provide protection for your floor and withstand against stains very well due to their coloring. Enlighten your home with creativity and beauty with a Meshkin runner.
