Azerbaijani rugs are a product of Azerbaijan, an ancient center of carpet weaving. Azerbaijan has been known since the ancient times as a center of a large variety of crafts. The archeological dig on the territory of Azerbaijan testifies to the well developed agriculture, stock raising, metal working, pottery and ceramics, and last but not least carpet-weaving that date as far back as to the 2nd millennium BC.

The most ancient carpet ever discovered is the famous Pazyryk carpet of the VI-V century BC which was found during the excavations in the Altai Mountains. The results of the archeological digging in Azerbaijan validate the antiquity of the carpet weaving traditions on this land. The Gultapin excavations discovered carpet weaving tools which date back to the IV-III millennium BC. For many centuries during the historical existence of our nation both settled and nomadic ways of life were of importance. A carpet per se is democratic, however its real folk character is about something else. A carpet was meant to unite people, to cultivate the sense of collectivism, mutual aid, and friendly cohesion. An Azerbaijani carpet, which embodies numerous and various functions, is in fact something more that just a combination of these purposes. An Azerbaijani carpet is not only one of the most important elements in the national way of life, not only a variety of the arts and crafts, but also a key link to the ethical and moral principles and customs of the people's existence.

The carpet making was born in rural huts and with time ranked among the most essential arts. It was highly valued by the heads of states, and the gifted weavers were glorified by the greatest poets. The carpet history is assumed to be divided into the following four main periods:

- I period - the early stage of the carpet development. The carpet ware is very simple, without any motifs and patterns. The first palas and djedjims appear.

- II period - introduction of the kilim weaving practice by the intricate threading technique.

- III period - weaving of shadda, verni, sumakh, zili. The period of simple and complex whipping techniques.

- IV period - introduction of the knotted pile weaving. Both from the technical and artistic standpoints this stage can be considered the acme of the carpet making.

The territory of the Southern and Northern Azerbaijan saw different states, religions and tribal cultures coming and going. There is always an inevitable mutual influence and penetration between the neighboring cultures, whether peaceful or militant. These processes were reflected in carpet making as well. Throughout Azerbaijan appeared numerous carpet production centers; each featured its own specific style and school.

Kids Zone

Coloring
Here are some traditional Caucasus textile designs for you to color or use to decorate something:
Caucasus Coloring 2 Caucasus Coloring 1 Caucasus Coloring 3 Caucasus Coloring 4

Knitting
Azerbaijani arts and crafts traditions include metalworking, embroidery, stone carving, and knitting, among other folk traditions. Here, you can find some socks in the Azerbaijani tradition that you can make yourself! If you need help, ask an experienced knitter! Knit Azerbaijani Socks!.

Word Search

Have a little fun while learning about Azerbaijani carpets by completing the word search below!

Terminology

• hurjins: multi-colored carpet saddlebags
• mafrashes: carpet bags for bedding
• guzgugabi: small bags for carrying mirrors
• shadda, verni, zilli, and kilim: Azerbaijani carpet styles


Puzzle featuring Shirvan rug