Examination of Identity Components and the Process of Cultural Erosion in the Khamseh Carpet of Zanjan
Keywords:
Identity, Cultural Erosion, Khamseh Carpets of Zanjan, Handwoven CarpetsAbstract
The Iranian handwoven carpet has always served, beyond being an artistic or consumer good, as an important medium for representing the culture and identity of society. Among these, the Khamseh carpet of Zanjan, with its mental–geometric motifs and natural dyes, is considered a reflection of the ecosystem and identity of the Khamseh tribes. However, contemporary social and economic changes—such as the introduction of commercial patterns, the weakening of indigenous tradition transmission, and the declining economic value of weaving—have led to the gradual erosion of this identity. The present study was conducted with the aim of identifying the identity-forming components of the Khamseh carpet and examining the threats it faces. Accordingly, three main questions were raised: (1) What are the key identity-giving elements of the Khamseh carpet? (2) What factors have weakened this identity? (3) What strategies can be proposed for its revitalization? The research method is qualitative, based on description and thematic analysis. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with weavers and local experts, field observation in active workshops, and document analysis. Findings indicate that a visual structure based on broken and symbolic motifs, the use of natural dyes such as madder and indigo, and a low knot density are among the most important identity markers of this carpet. In contrast, the spread of commercial patterns, intergenerational discontinuity, and the substitution of synthetic dyes have created conditions that weaken its cultural identity. The results of the study show that the Khamseh carpet is in transition from a “living carpet with tribal identity” to a “market-oriented and rootless product.” Accordingly, revitalizing indigenous discourse, strengthening supportive policies, and linking tradition with innovation are identified as key strategies for the protection and continuity of this cultural heritage.
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Copyright (c) 1404 Somayah Balaghatnia (Author); Seyed Reza Hosseini
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.
