It is a long time since Caucasia weavings have been one of the most
valuable handmade among Eastern Carpets. It must be said, that fine wool, bright and vivid
colors, as well as correct method of weaving, made kilims of this region valuable.
Caucasia kilim weavers use merino wool of Georgia, which is the best.
Caucasia is a mountain region with cold climate. Because of its special situation, it is a
bridge between East and West. As Caucasia is a suitable passage, and different races with
different nationalities might live in, made peoples culture of this region to be
hurt.
Caucasian texture had a flourishing era, when Russian govern this region,
because of trading with other countries. These trades not only increased production, but
also caused weavers to be acquainted with chemical dyes. Easiness of using these dyes,
made those become very common among Caucasian. Gradually, traditional use of natural dyes,
with high quality, has been forgotten and stood aside.
Weaving has an important role in Caucasian culture. Carpets are mostly
woven by women, and weaving is one of The Social Traditions of Caucasia.
Girls become
familiar with methods of weaving by their mothers, when they are only a child, and weave
carpets for their dowries. In Caucasian societies, women, specially mothers, have important
situation in family. In many areas of this region, Star Shapes are engraved on main
columns of the house, which is a symbol of mother in family.
Kilim is used for many different purposes, such as: carpet, curtain,
wall-hanger, cushion, yastic and tent of cart. Other usage of kilim, which is in the shape
of bag, is used for keeping cereals, food and necessaries; and also mafrash
for keeping clothes and bedding. Caucasia kilim is very common for its composition, in all
regions, except in Georgia and Nargoni, Karibak. Human bodies, working domestic animals
and imaginary and mythical animals compositions, are seen in these kilims.