شناخت مفاهیم نمادهای شکل‌دهنده نقوش گلیم‌های شهرستان تالش

Abstract: Symbols, over time, have been identified as one of the oldest and most successful forms of human communication, with a significant role in the transmission of cultural, social, religious, and philosophical ideas. Symbolic elements, conveyed through form and design in a range of works of art, uniquely bear the beliefs and values that are intrinsic to different societies. Among all these art forms, one of the most genuine and respected handicrafts of Iran is kilim weaving, which is an exemplary example of the utilization of symbols. Kilims are not only used for practical purposes, such as for floor covering or as shawls, but also as mirrors reflecting the values of culture, beliefs, and worldviews of people of each region, conveying more than their material characteristics. Talesh city, in Guilan province, is identified as a prominent kilim weaving center in Iran. Talesh kilims occupy a unique place among Iranian handicrafts because of their utmost variety of patterns and the presence of clearly defined symbolic motifs. Talesh kilims' motifs have a close relation to the area's cultural, social, and religious features and are directly linked to its dense natural landscape. These motifs, apart from their beauty, convey significant messages and ideas from generation to generation. To this extent, Talesh kilims can be said to be a means of non-verbal communication presenting the stories, beliefs, and values of a society innovatively. However, the recent socioeconomic developments have had a profound effect on kilim weaving in the area. The youth migration to urban areas, reduced contact with traditional art forms, and lifestyle changes all threaten this valuable art form seriously. Moreover, the fact that there has not been much research into the symbolic meanings within Talesh kilim designs, as well as restricted access to scholarly literature, has contributed to the gradual disappearance of this rich cultural heritage. This circumstance results in a deterioration of the cultural identity of the region on one hand, while concurrently limiting the prospective avenues for sustainable development and the improvement of Talesh handicrafts on the other hand. Therefore, this study aims to recognize the symbolic motifs in Talesh kilim patterns. Recording and explaining these symbols is a way of preserving and reviving this important art form. This research can serve as a foundation for cultural and economic planning, enabling a better understanding of the cultural and artistic elements of the region. The outcome of this research can be used as a foundation for preparing programs for sustainable development and regional handicrafts' enhancement, thus making a significant contribution to preserving the cultural and artistic heritage of Talesh. The symbolic motifs of Talesh kilims are predominantly the outcome of the intertwinement of natural forms and abstract ideas, such as surrounding flora, botanical motifs, farming and decorative tools, mythic patterns, local and foreign fauna, and ritualistic symbols of human activities. Animal motifs in Talesh kilims reflect local lifestyles immediately, for example, permissible animals, aquatic animals, and birds. The artists also provide future generations with a visual representation of animal species that are extinct or endangered. The artists also develop various dynamic ideas in their work by using motifs inspired by wild animals and applying the inherent characteristics of the animals in safeguarding their crops. Talesh Kilim's design has been highly influenced by cultural exchange. The geographical fact of Talesh bordering Turkish-speaking areas and the subsequent cultural exchange have led the artisans to incorporate motifs from various ethnic groups. In particular, the Shahsavan kilims feature motifs with patterns such as crabs, ram's head, S shape, and snakes, while the Naznazi, Helai flower, and Baku patterns are characteristic of the Azerbaijan Talesh. Observations reveal that nature, including mountains, seas, rivers, celestial bodies, rain, plants, and fruits, significantly affects the symbols depicted in the Talesh kilims. Studies can be conducted on the application of kilim patterns on other local Talesh garments, and the similarities between kilims and other traditional Talesh arts.
Research Question: What determines the development of concepts, meanings, and sources for geometric patterns in Talesh kilims?
Research Method: In this research, 195 kilims were collected with a descriptive-analytical approach, based on fieldwork and library research, to study the concepts within Talesh kilim designs. First, tours were taken to 47 operational handicraft workshops within the city where kilim patterns were gathered. Next, 195 various kilims with various colors and patterns were analyzed. Finally, the concept and meaning of Talesh kilim patterns were interpreted by interviewing people and studying libraries.