Kelim

Kelim, also spelled kilim, is a flat-woven textile traditionally produced in the Middle East, the Caucasus, and parts of Central and South Asia. Kilims are used as rugs, coverings, or wall hangings and are characterized by a lack of pile, making them reversible and durable.

Construction and technique: Kilim weaving interlaces warp and weft to create a flat surface without knots. Patterns are formed by changing color in the weft and using techniques such as slit-tapestry, which allows changes in color at pattern boundaries. The result is a geometric, often highly patterned fabric with visible color shifts and a crisp edge along the weave.

Materials and dyes: Wool is the most common material, though cotton or a wool-ciber blend can appear in some regional varieties. Dyes range from traditional natural sources—such as madder, woad, and indigo—to modern synthetic dyes, producing a broad palette of earthy reds, blues, greens, and neutral tones.

Design and regional variation: Kilims typically feature geometric motifs, including diamonds, zigzags, and stepped shapes. Patterns and color schemes vary by region and tribe, with Turkish, Caucasian, Persian, and Balkan kilims each displaying distinctive stylistic vocabularies. Some motifs carry symbolic meanings, such as protection, fertility, or blessings for a home.

Use and cultural significance: Historically, kilims served as floor coverings, ceremonial pieces, or upholstery and played a role in trade along historic routes. They remain valued for their craftsmanship, portability, and visual appeal. Today, kilims are appreciated in traditional settings and contemporary interior design for their texture, color, and flat-woven beauty.