> [!NOTE]+ Meta > Reference:: https://www.dorisleslieblau.com/persian-prayer-rugs-between-art-and-religion/ > Tags:: #warp #Iran #textiles > WeftLinks:: [[Spiritual value of craft]] > Claim:: [[Claim - Craft plays an important role in worship]] > [!SUMMARY] Summary > Since the advent of Islam, prayer rugs have been handwoven in Iran using sacred designs. ### Highlights Every prayer carpet is composed in a particular way. The central part is occupied by the symbol of mihrab – a niche. **Mihrab** is a an architectural element which is present in every mosque and constitutes a directional point to Mecca (it is also a symbol of the doorway of the Sacred Mosque in Mecca). There are various types of niches, the ones from nomadic and village regions are woven in a more simplified and angular way, whereas town and festive prayer rugs tend to take on a more rounded and opulent form. In terms of design, rugs made by nomadic tribes in small Persian villages are much simpler than town and ceremonial ones. The most noticeable rug motif from Persian prayer rugs is the tree of life The weavers from the region of former Persia, especially form the towns of Isfahan, Qum and Tabriz, have mastered the skill of making lifelike representations of the tree of life.