Sileh or Zileh is a pileless carpet that falls into the Kilim category. This type of carpet was produced in the Karabagh region of the Southwest Caucasus in Armenia. This carpet is known as Sileh (Zileh or Zili) in European literature and by Western collectors, as opposed to Verneh (Verni) as it is called in the Caucasus.

Sileh rugs have a wool warp and weft. Along with the warp and weft, the Sileh technique employs additional wefts. The additional weaves are colored wool that form the Sileh design. Similar to Soumak weavings, Sileh rugs are only used on one side because of the loose wool threads on the back of the Sileh.

The Sileh’s design is geometric and features large panels with prominent S- or Ƨ-shaped designs in each compartment and throughout the mat. These two geometric shapes represent the style known as dragon. Each S or Ƨ contains numerous small S-shaped geometric figures. Around each larger S or Ƨ, other cultural motifs are made. The oldest Silehs are narrow, so to have a larger piece, it was necessary to make two narrower pieces separately and then join them together.

Generally, Silehs are made with two alternating colors for S or Ƨ designs, which can be ivory with red, ivory with navy blue, ivory with reddish brown, or navy blue with red. The bottom of the carpet is generally reddish brown in color. Additionally, different shades of blue, brown, gold and green are used in the design of the other elements.