Home > Carpet Making > Oriental Rugs Glossary

Indigo: Different blue shaded dyes obtained from the leaves of the indigo plant.

Isfahan: A former Persian capital and one of the most famous cities in the production of Persian rugs. Isphahan is located in western Iran and was the capital city during the golden age of Persian carpet production in the 16th and 17th centuries while the Safavid dynasty was in power. After a decline in culture and prosperity from the early 18th century, Isphahan began regaining its status in the 1920's when fine rugs based on classical Persian themes began being woven once again. Many rugs from the postwar period are very finely woven with knot densities up to 750 per square inch and frequently the use of silk is added. Popular designs include intricate floral medallions or animal pictorial rugs.

Istanbul: major crossroads and bazaar of the carpet world.

Izmir: SW Anatolian market centre.

Igsyalyk: small bag for a spindle.