Стр. 58 - Azərbaycan xalçaları

58
The Daralayaz province was known
for its different carpet styles, forms, and
color shades. It is no coincidence that I.
Chopin called Daralayaz province the
“Switzerland of the Southern Caucasus”
when he visited. Fertile soil, forests, and
meadows surrounded the province.
A thousand shades of flowers on the
slopes contributed to the development
of animal husbandry, growing fruit,
and weaving carpets. Daralayaz is con-
sidered one of the cradles of the carpet
weaving arts of Azerbaijan. The high fat
content of the plants here created fresh
and cheerful dyes.
Daralayaz province was situated on
the road connecting Tabriz and Iravan
with Karabakh. Therefore, the number
of bridges and caravanserais was outstanding. Azerbaijani motifs are obvious in the
folklore of the people living in this province. Dragon and snake motifs were particu-
larly widespread in both architecture and decorative applied art. Castle ruins, caves,
and abundant mineral springs complemented the fascinating
landscape of this region, leading to the transmission of nature’s
beauty onto carpets and carpet products.
One of the largest residential districts of Daralayaz province
is Keshishkend. Carpet weaving was common in the villages
of Almali, Bulbulolen,
Gabakhli, Garagaya, Go-
vushug, Eleyez, Emagu,
Kedikveng, Guluduzu,
Salli, Hors, and Jive. Differ-
ent areas of art with ancient historical roots were
developed in the villages of Akhta, Zeyte, Kabut,
Kotanli, Kochbey, Gomur, Itgiran, and Her-her.
Carpets woven in Daralayaz resemble both Kara-
bakh and Gazakh carpet schools in their compo-
Daralayaz province