Short Persian Lilihan Runner,

Beautiful colors with fine quality, circa 1920. Produced south of the city of Arak by Armenians in Persia, Lilihan rugs are known for their design. Traditionally designed with a curvilinear lattice with traditional floral motifs these rugs also feature geometric designs. The primary characteristic of Lilihan rugs is the abundant use of pink although khaki and brown ornament the salamander background. Made with a long pile, these rugs are often mid-sized and favored by American tastes. The visually stunning Lilihan rug is a favourite due to its durability, longer pile, and vibrant colors. The Lilihan rugs are woven using the sturdy Hamadan (single weft) weave and using a symmetrical (Turkish) knot. The warp is usually cotton, and the weft can be made of cotton or fine wool. They are coarsely but tightly flat-woven, which makes them extremely durable. The Lilihan rugs closely resemble Sarouk rugs with an all-over pattern on a red or pink field, but unlike the Sarouks, they have a single weft construction. They come in a wide range of sizes, and the quality of these rugs can vary considerably.