A Kilim (or Kelim) (or Gelim, in Persian), is a flatwoven rug, taking its name from the Turkish word for prayer rug . Kilims are produced by tightly interweaving the warp and weft strands of the weave to produce a flat (i.e. pileless) surface.

Because Kilims are much quicker, easier and cheaper to produce than 'standard' oriental carpets (i.e. pile carpets) they represent a good starting point for those just beginning to develop an interest in the collecting of carpets. Despite what many perceive as their secondary (or inferior) status to pile carpets, Kilims have become increasingly collectable in themselves over recent years, with quality pieces now commanding the prices that their workmanship rightly deserves.

Books

• Allane, Lee (1988). Oriental Rugs: A Buyer's Guide. Thames and Hudson. ISBN 0-500-27517-3.