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Ishkar

Milli Surood kilim

Milli Surood kilim

Regular price £495.00 GBP
Regular price Sale price £495.00 GBP
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If you are interested in ordering the Milli Surood kilim, do email us with your enquiry. We will be able to let you know the lead time for any production as the situation in Afghanistan is ever changing.

We are showcasing three stunning kilim designs from ISHKAR, all made using traditional methods in Afghanistan. Although the making process is ancient, the Milli Surood kilim design has a fresh, contemporary aesthetic. 

This kilim was exclusively designed for ISHKAR by Lapis Communications. The Milli Surood kilim design was inspired by the formation of soundwaves created by the Afghan national anthem, called the Milli Surood. The idea was to create a kilim that could be a symbol of unity in Afghanistan at a time when the country faces such division. 

The layout of the soundwaves has been translated as this sketchy, linear, multicoloured design that gives the Milli Surood kilim a wonderfully kinetic feel

Our values and this specific product:

  • Natural materials
  • Minimal waste, pollutants and emissions
  • Conserving traditions
  • Community engagement

Please note that no two kilims are ever identical, they are characterised by slight irregularities that are typical of handmade pieces.

Sustainability Excellence

These stunning kilim designs are part of a collaboration between ISHKARand the Norwegian Refugee Council.

The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) employed 20 people who had been forced to flee to camps in Herat and Qala-e-Naw because of severe drought in their villages. Although there is a rich tradition of kilim weaving in Badghis, the women were specifically trained to weave these modern designs.

Each is handmade individually in an ancient and traditional way.

Materials

100% wool

Part of what makes Afghanistan’s kilims so special is the Ghazni wool from which they are made. Each strand of wool is individually spun by hand, giving the kilims great character. This type of wool is also famously hardwearing, meaning Afghan carpets can survive for centuries. 

The type of wool is named for the Afghan province of Ghazni which is known for its lush, green pastures. Grazing on this rich food source gives the sheep's wool its softness. It's also naturally a very pure shade of white, making it easy to create vibrant colours from natural dyes. These sheep create a long fleece which gives a longer wool fibre, creating a yarn that is considered one of the world's finest for rugs and carpets.

Shipping & Returns

Please read our shipping policy and returns policy. Please note that we cannot accept returns on bodycare products, vintage items, earrings or gift cards.

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