Yalameh

Yalameh carpet

The city of Yalameh is located north of the city of Isfahan in central Iran. Yalameh is known for its high-quality tribal rugs with diamond-shaped geometric patterns. Compared to other tribal rugs, the Yalameh is one of the best.
The pile of Yalameh rugs is very fine, especially when compared to other tribal patterns, and is made of soft wool on a cotton base. The pattern is distinctive, with large diamonds repeated in a straight line across the carpet, often along with geometric prints of animals or people scattered across the field. Similar to the Shiraz rugs, these rugs combine beautifully with modern or minimalist furniture, adding a sense of luxury and warmth to the living space.

Historical background

The Yalameh are a sub-tribe of the Lori people of Iran. The Lori, also known as the Lor, are the oldest tribe in the country. Over the centuries, the Lori people have spread from the central-western region to the Persian Gulf of southwestern Iran. The Yalameh are mainly from the northern part of central Iran.
Yalameh carpets have been known on the carpet market since the second quarter of the 20th century.
The patterns are geometric and heavily influenced by Lori patterns. The patterns are all-over or medallion patterns. The all-over pattern typically consists of square chambers with palmettes or diamond shapes surrounded by hook patterns, which in turn are framed by tribal patterns. The medallion style features various shapes of diamonds or hexagons, also surrounded by hook patterns. The medallions are arranged in a field and are sometimes surrounded by tribal motifs and flower heads. The main motif of the border usually consists of alternating colorful palmettes, leaves or tendrils. The carpets have a ground and a pile of wool. The (symmetrical) Turkish knot is used. The basic and border colors of Yalameh are red, blue, ivory and brown. Additionally, different shades of green, grey, gold and cinnamon are used for the design elements.
The sizes range from rugs to carpets measuring three by three meters. Un petit pourcentage de la population est réparti sur plusieurs niveaux. The weavings are generally of good to very good quality.
Yalameh rugs were successfully marketed to western European consumers as the weavers were able to produce rugs in both tribal and standard European room sizes. Yalameh's nomadic design and fine wool contributed to its popularity.