Hamadan carpets are instantly recognisable due to the high proportion of plain camel hair used in the outer border, as seen in the example opposite, where the beautiful ‘abrash’, or tone variation, in the camel colour is very effective. The designs are similar to those of Caucasian rugs made to the north of Iran, with medallions and anchor designs in many different permutations being typical. Many Hamadan carpets come in the form of runners, and few large carpets were made. Hamadans have long been popular in the American market.