Yalameh
Yalameh is the name given to the colourful southern Iranian carpets woven primarily
in and around the village of Aliabad in the southern Iranian province of Fars. Pieces
from this origin were formerly called Shekarlu, but they were very rare. They were
traditionally more colourful than other southern Iranian pieces, the palettes of which
were restricted to reds and dark blues.
In recent years, the supply of Shekarlu rugs had become restricted. Then, in the 1960's and 70's,
a new type of rug appeared on the market. These were Yalameh. They were as colourful as the Shekarlu rugs,
but with a stronger emphasis on blues. The weave and designs are generally more regular than those of Sherkalu
rugs. They share many of the characteristics of tribal pieces; made of 100% wool with a fondness for bright
colours and geometrical designs. However the wool, though characteristically soft and lustrous, is machine
spun and the colours show more variety than is usual for tribal rugs, with soft shades - of red, pink, blue
green and yellow. All the motifs however are entirely traditional and all sizes are produced. Other weaving
centres which come within the general category of Yalameh are Shekarlu.
Yadz
Yazd is a major city of South Eastern Iran. The closest other city is Kerman, but it has grown up in
isolation and retains a conservatism which is reflected in its buildings and the culture of its people.
One manifestation of this is the survival, in the city itself and in its hinterland, of the ancient Iranian
religion, Zoroastrianism.
The carpet production of Yazd is small but very varied. Few rugs reach the western markets.
All sizes are made, though large pieces predominate. In terms of style they can be compared to Kerman
production, in terms of colour to the production of Mashad and Kashmir as well as Kerman.
