KERMAN

Down in southeastern Iran, near an oasis in the Dast-e-Lut Desert, lies the city of Kerman, with a population of about 350. The city of Kerman today has a pleasant atmosphere with mosques, bazaars and tea houses. Carpet making has long been an important industry and carpets from Kerman are easily recognizable. The background color is often red, and the design is dominated by a centrally placed pendant along with a wide border full of flowers. Carpets made before the First World War usually have different patterns, such as trees, animals and representations. The material as well as the design is usually of good quality. Carpets were considered the best among Iranian carpets, but newer productions, unfortunately, are sometimes of poor quality. Modern rugs called Kerman-Lavar often come with all-over floral patterns in pure colors. The rugs are also sold under the Kirman brand.