Location: Isolated from other centres of carpet and rug weaving by hundreds of miles. Kirman is situated in a desolate area in south east Persia. Numerous villages in the surrounding area also produce rugs, all of which are labelled Kirman.

General Description: Kirman rugs are extremely beautiful and, in the case of the tightly woven and decorated examples, often recall Persian miniature paintings. Kirman rugs and carpets have been made for some time, but today as part of a major small-scale industry they are made to suit individual export requirements of the British, European and American markets. Subtle differences in preference have been utilised by the ustads, (the master carpet designers) and each weaver specialises in a type suited to a particular market. The genius of the ustads of Kirman has always been noticeable in their carpets, as traditional Persian designs have been given the distinctive Kirman touch.

Western influence can be seen in some of the designs, for the rugs from Kirman attracted the attention of overseas importers from an early date and often though patronage subtle changes in designs were introduced.

Kirman carpets are predominately floral. Carpets and rugs often appear to be woven on red grounds which on closer inspection turn out to be self-coloured, the illusion being caused by the destiny of the red decoration. The motif used on the medallion is also used in the corners and in the border.

Occasionally animals and human figures, especially in hunting scenes, can be found on the rugs. The boteh design, either on its own or as a floral element is fairly common. The Tree of Life is also found.

Two centres near Kirman produce rugs which bear tÍheir own name in addition to that of Kirman. They are Kirman Yezd and Kirman Ravar. The latter are extremely fine and good quality rugs. They are made in the village of Ravar, which is about 25 miles (40 km) from Kirman. Rug making at Yezd is comparatively recent introduction to the town, which is some 150 miles (241 km) to the west of Kirman. Decorative motifs are similar to those of Kirman, but the density of the knotting is lower.

Specification: Loom- vertical. Warp - Cotton. Weft - Cotton. Pile - wool. Knot - Persian, basically four qualities- 190, 250, 320 and 400 knots to the square inch.