Senneh (Seneh), now modern day Sanandaj is located in the West of Iran, the Kurdish province. The production of rugs started in the early Classical period, and even possibly before then.  The city of Sanadaj was only a small town until the 17th Century, when the then Govenor of the city renovated the town’s fortress (Sena Dezh), which dates back to the Abbassid period (750AD – 1258AD).

Kilims

Seneh is most famed for its production of Kilims, being one of the founders of the Kilim weaving technique along with Bijar. Today Seneh is known to produce the finest quality Kilims. Some examples of Seneh Kilims can be seen below;

Some of the older Seneh kilims are of extreme value and highly sought after.

How to Identify Senneh Rugs

Senneh rugs can easily be identified by their patterns, they tend to stick to two main patterns; Herati Leaf & Boteh.All of these designs are featured in a main hexagonal motif that separates the carpets in to different sections. This is shown below;

Seneh rugs have the second smallest weave that Persia produces.

Materials Used in Senneh Rugs & Kilims

Typically Seneh rugs are woven using fine soft wools with a cotton warp, natural dyes are used in all Seneh rugs & kilims. Kilims are woven with wool, but have no pile.

Buying Tips

• Senneh rugs have the second smallest weave, only buy a seneh rug with a small tight weave

• They either have a Boteh (Paisley) or Herati Leaf pattern