Common Motifs in No Knot Handwoven Products of Sistan, Iran

Handwoven products of Sistan, with their specific motifs and uses, are divided into two categories: "with loom" and "without loom". With loom products are the ones that their weaving requires a loom and a specific location. However, without loom products are woven without such equipment, such as woolen and hairy twine, and mat which are woven by nomadic women. These various handicrafts have some similar motifs that are used in various no knot products. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the common motifs used in different no knot products of Sistan. Regarding the unique no knot handwoven products of Sistan, Hall et al. (1998) stated that "This art began by means of the simplest methods of weaving using plant and animal fibers and has progressed from providing the everyday necessary equipment to such delicate and deluxe products. Today, various kinds of weaving products are often used as ornaments or manifestations of the collective identity.” Ali Hassouri (1993) also deals with these handwoven products and their weavers in his book Sistan Carpet.