Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque’s Carpet (Abu Dhabi)
| Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque’s Carpet | |
|---|---|
 Abu Dhabi Mosque's Carpet | |
| General information | |
| Name | Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque’s Carpet (Abu Dhabi) |
| Original Name | فرش مسجد شیخ زاید بن سلطان آل نهیان |
| Alternative Name(s) | Abu Dhabi Mosque's Carpet |
| Origin |  Iran: Neyshabour |
| Manufacturer and Master Designers | Iran Carpet Co. |
| Weaving Duration | 18 Months |
| Year of Delivery | 2007 |
| Technical Information | |
| Common Designs | Overall Design (Afshan) with Five Medallions |
| Common Motifs & Patterns | Shah Abasi |
| Common Sizes | 133×40 m. 5630 m2 / 60600 ft2 |
| Number of Colors Used | 25 Colors |
| Common Colors | Green, Gold |
| Dyeing Method | Chemical Dye |
| Pile Material | Wool |
| Pile Height | 10 mm |
| Foundation Material | Cotton |
| Weaving Technique | Farsi |
| Knot Type | Asymmetrical (Persian) |
| Linage | 40 Knots in width of 6.5 cm |
| Knot Density | 380000 kpsm. |
| Number of Nodes | 2.12 Billion Nodes |
| Weight | 35 Tons |
As the largest and the most technically elaborate, this carpet has set a record in the history of hand-woven carpets. Abu Dhabi’s municipality commissioned Iran Carpet Company to weave it to cover the main prayer room of Sheikh Zayed’s Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque.
Description About The Carpet
As the largest and the most technically elaborate, this carpet has set a record in the history of hand-woven carpets. Abu Dhabi’s municipality commissioned Iran Carpet Company to weave it to cover the main prayer room of Sheikh Zayed’s Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque. This carpet is 133 m long with an adjustable width of 40 to 48 m depending on the mosque’s position[1], taking up an area of 5630 sq2. To weave it, Iran Carpet Company employed 1200 skilled weavers in two shifts every day, completing the project in 18 months. The pattern of this carpet is an overall design that contains five medallions 7, 14, and 20 m in diameter. The combination of medallions in a green field creates a visually unique image reminiscent of old Iranian gardens. Subtle raised lines are marked on the rug’s surface to guide worshippers into orderly rows during the prayers rituals. However, these lines are so meticulously implemented that are barely visible from a distance. The rug incorporates a 40-knot linage and is woven in a way to endure wear and tear over generations. This rug has 2.12 billion individual, hand-tied knots all done through the craftsmanship of skilled weavers from Neyshabour. High-quality raw materials, as well as dying techniques, were two significant factors contributing to the creation of this distinctive rug, both of which were supplied and implemented by Iran Carpet Company experts using domestic potentials.
Post-weaving procedures (polishing) were carried out in the company’s factories in Karaj, which took up to three months. The rug was initially woven into nine separate pieces which upon completion were transferred to the mosque and put together by 40 senior carpet repairmen to form a harmonious whole.
Before the rug was transferred to Abu Dhabi, it was unveiled in Tehran’s Mosalla in a public ceremony hosting Emirati officials and the Iran Carpet Company management board and staff. Press reporters covering the event had to go aboard a helicopter to be able to get full coverage.
Woven outstandingly utilizing the best raw materials on a magnificent pattern, the rug is a triumph of design and craftsmanship, which has magnified the glory of the mosque.
Guinness Book
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque’s rug is the only carpet included in the Guinness Book of Records, with thousands of tourists visiting the mosque to see it each year. The art, textile marvel, and craftsmanship incorporated in this rug are such that Abu Dhabi officials consider it a top priority in their special quests’ travel itinerary.
See also
References
- ↑ In the altar section, the width of the carpet is 48 meters.
Bibliography
- Weaving Excellence. no date. Iran Carpet Co.. Tehran: Iran Carpet Co.
- Interview with Kurosh Zakari, vice president of production and member of the board of directors.
- Interview with Mohammad Saif, a member of the restoration and installation group.