The city of Keshan lies directly between Isfahan and Tehran. One of the most famous carpets in the world, the Ardebil carpet, is on display in London's Victoria and Albert Museum, and is thought to have been made in Keshan in the 16th century.

Ardebil carpets of the highest quality are made from cork wool. This is a particularly fine wool that is taken from the neck. It is considered the softest wool. Carpets made from such wool are often defined as "Cork".

Ardebil carpets usually have a red background, a darker border and a rich pattern of floral elements around a central medallion.