The semantics of medallion and corner rugs from Ilam, with an approach Anthropology of Carpet

In this qualitative study, for the first time with an anthropological approach to carpet and using content analysis method, relying on archaeological evidence, field information and mythological meanings, the attempt was made to explain the content of the Ilam carpet patterns, the most common motifs in Lachak-Taranj Ilam carpets, especially Shamsa, Niloufar, abstract water forms, Qochaq, gazelle, crow, three and seven-branched flowers, and pomegranate, were reviewed and analyzed in a comparative study and using the mentioned content analysis approach in order to better understand the values and content relationships of these patterns with the native culture. The question of what hidden meanings some of the motifs in medallion and corner rugs have was answered. The necessary data for this research was obtained through collecting images of medallion and corner rugs, field studies of key informants, and library research, and was finally analyzed. The results indicated that Ilam weavers, influenced by the cultural achievements of their environment, have created patterns in their rugs that rely more on ancient achievements, especially in the Ilam Valley region, the region's oral culture, and mythological meanings. The meaning of most of these patterns is related to the story of the birth of love and cooperation between Anahita and Mithra. During the creation of patterns, weavers are not aware of mythical meanings and so on, and simply strive to create patterns in their handwoven fabrics that hold valuable meanings in their native culture.