A kilim is a flat-woven textile produced without a knotted pile by nomadic and village weavers across the Middle East, Caucasus, and North Africa. They served diverse practical functions in daily camp life, from floor coverings to storage containers. Unlike traditional piled carpets, kilims are constructed by tightly interweaving the coloured weft threads across the vertical warp threads. This technique results in a lighter, flexible fabric characterised by crisp geometric motifs and flat surfaces.

How were sofreh used?

Sofreh were essential utilitarian cloths used by nomadic families primarily for culinary purposes, such as preparing dough or spreading meals on the ground. Their dimensions and flatweave structures were tailored to catch flour or contain food during daily use. Over time, these textiles became canvases for traditional tribal designs unique to specific regions and confederacies. They are now appreciated as independent works of folk art reflecting the domestic life of their makers.

How do I care for a flatweave?

Maintaining a flatweave textile involves gentle vacuuming without a rotating brush to prevent snagging the tight wool or cotton foundation. Keeping the piece out of direct sunlight preserves the stability of natural dyes over the years. Using a breathable underlay helps prevent slipping and reduces friction against hard flooring surfaces. Professional textile cleaning is recommended when deeper maintenance becomes necessary.

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Tribal Flatweave Kilim

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These tribal flatweave kilim pieces are flat-woven nomad textiles and rugs prized for geometric patterns and authentic wool textures.

Antique Turkmen 'Dali' Kilim, Very Fine Weave, Circa 1900.

1900 - 1920

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Antique Turkmen 'Dali' Kilim, Very Fine Weave, Circa 1900.

From Cotswold Oriental Rugs

£495

3+ MONTHS AGO

rugs

Antique Caucasian Shirvan Kilim of Banded Design with Soft Colours, Circa 1900.

1900 - 1920

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Antique Caucasian Shirvan Kilim of Banded Design with Soft Colours, Circa 1900.

From Cotswold Oriental Rugs

£495

3+ MONTHS AGO

rugs

Antique Uzbek Gajeri Kilim with Fine Banded Design, Circa 1900/20.

1900 - 1920

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Antique Uzbek Gajeri Kilim with Fine Banded Design, Circa 1900/20.

From Cotswold Oriental Rugs

£395

3+ MONTHS AGO

rugs

Antique Bread Sofreh, Kamo, North-central Persia.

1900 - 1920

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Antique Bread Sofreh, Kamo, North-central Persia.

From Brian MacDonald Antique Rugs & Carpets

£1,350

3+ MONTHS AGO

rugs

Rare Design Azerbaijan Mianeh Long Kilim Rug. 303cm X 120cm.

1900 - 1920

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Rare Design Azerbaijan Mianeh Long Kilim Rug. 303cm X 120cm.

From Country House and Eastern Interiors

£1,295

3+ MONTHS AGO

rugs

Antique Bread Sofreh, Kamo, Central Persia.

1900 - 1920

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Antique Bread Sofreh, Kamo, Central Persia.

From Brian MacDonald Antique Rugs & Carpets

£1,250

3+ MONTHS AGO

rugs

Antique Tacheh, Bakhtiari-lor Tribes, the Chahar Mahal, Western Persia.

19th century

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Antique Tacheh, Bakhtiari-lor Tribes, the Chahar Mahal, Western Persia.

From Brian MacDonald Antique Rugs & Carpets

£1,250

3+ MONTHS AGO

rugs

Antique Bread Sofreh, Afshar Nomads, Kerman Province, South Persia.

1900 - 1920

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Antique Bread Sofreh, Afshar Nomads, Kerman Province, South Persia.

From Brian MacDonald Antique Rugs & Carpets

£950

3+ MONTHS AGO

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Antique South Caucasian Complete Mafrash Storage Bag, Circa 1920.

1900 - 1920

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Antique South Caucasian Complete Mafrash Storage Bag, Circa 1920.

From Cotswold Oriental Rugs

£295

3+ MONTHS AGO

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Antique Afghan Baluch Sofreh 'Eating Cloth' Circa 1900/20.

1900 - 1920

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Antique Afghan Baluch Sofreh 'Eating Cloth' Circa 1900/20.

From Cotswold Oriental Rugs

£295

3+ MONTHS AGO

rugs

Listings feature flatweaves spanning the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, utilising hand-spun wool, cotton, and natural dyes across Persian, Caucasian, and Anatolian traditions.