A Reflection of Nature in the Form and Design of Heriz Rugs

Iranian handmade arts as a part of cultural and artistic heritage of the country have always provided a context for transferring Iranian local traditions throughout history. These local and traditional arts have their identity specifications according to the natural, environmental, and geographical conditions of the artists producing them. Iranian handwoven rugs especially in nomadic and rural areas as the most prominent Iranian local handmade industry represent the geography, nature, and culture of weavers. Heriz is known as one of the most important producers of Iranian rural-styled rugs. The prominent features in form and design of rugs woven in Heriz have given a unique identity in the geography of Iranian rugs leading to a global reputation. This study aimed to explore the effect of nature and the regional geography on technical and design components of Heriz rugs. To this end, the main question address in this study was related to the effect of nature on the form and design of Heirs rugs. Therefore, using field studies on the process of designing and weaving rugs, we investigated how identify, quality, design, and the weaving process are associated with the climatic and environmental conditions. The results indicated mountainous conditions, cold and mild climate, vegetation, and lifestyle of the people living in this region are represented in design, color and weaving patterns of Heriz rugs distinguishing these rugs from similar hand-woven rugs