Antique Soumak

Description

Antique Soumak

Antique Soumak rugs (also spelled Sumak) – This construction technique produces a flat-weave rug that is thick, strong and exceptionally durable. However, they are also stronger than kilims. Soumak carpets used to produce decorative patterns therefor they are unique. Rather than as a structural element. Antique Soumak rug  generally very finely woven and feature richly detailed motifs. Traditionally, these spectacular flat-weave carpets become decorated with ancient symbols, tiny birds and geometric animals. Many of these geometric patterns and tribal symbols become associated with the Shahsavan tribe. In the 17th century, these influential warriors served as the personal bodyguards to Shah Abbas according to historic legends. The Shahsavan, who used Soumak weaving techniques widely, inhabited modern-day Azerbaijan and parts of Northwest Persia near Ardabil.

Soumak Production

Soumak rugs woven in various carpet producing regions, the designs they feature are exceptionally diverse. Although they are fairly rare compared to pile carpets and traditional. Kilims, Soumak rugs feature grand medallions, finely executed repeating patterns. Persian garden designs and tribal motifs surround by multiple sets of richly detailed borders. Antique Soumak rugs make outstanding floor coverings. The technique used to construct bags, trappings, saddle covers, decorative bed spreads and functional household items. Like other regional handicrafts, Soumak rugs are highly decorative. Diverse textile pieces that flatter modern furnishings and soften minimalist interiors very well.

Furthermore, Soumak or Sumak is a type of brocading or flat-woven pile. Thicker than a kilim carpet, it is accomplished by looping the yarn. Horizontally around successive pairs of warps in between passes of over-under wefting. When compressed vertically with a weaver’s comb, the resultant texture looks like cabling rising slightly from the surface of the rug. Where this technique was widely practiced, but it certainly was not invented there. Antique Soumak has been practiced extensively across the antique rug producing world.

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