Persian Tribal Rugs

60 Unique Rugs
From € 344 to € 1,555
Collection of Authentic
Persian Kashan Rugs
for sale.
tribal
From € 344 to € 1,555
60 Unique Rugs

Tribal RUGS

HandKnotted Premium Quality Persian Rugs Originated from Tribal People of Iran
HandKnotted Premium Quality Persian Rugs Originated from Tribal People of Iran
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Step into a world of rich heritage and captivating artistry handcrafting with our exquisite collection of hand-knotted Persian tribal rugs. Each rug we offer is a testament to the cultural diversity in the villages scattered throughout tribes around Iran, where different materials and skilled artisans have produced magnificent works of art since 1918.

Persian Tribal Zabol Rug ~1960
Nomadic Design

Step into the captivating world of tribal women whose legacy of art unravels a profound history of courage, resilience, and cultural richness. Through their nomadic or village lives, these remarkable artisans poured their essence into each tribal Persian rug, showcasing their traditional dances, embracing the joyful moments, and weaving their connection to nature. With a masterful blend of raw materials and vibrant colours, every Persian tribal carpet became a testament to their innate artistic spirit, woven into the very fabric of their being.

No matter where they lived, they harnessed the raw power of nature; these artists transformed its elements into a kaleidoscope of colors and patterns. Their enduring hand-woven Persian tribal carpets became timeless companions, adorning village houses and nomadic tents, constantly reminding them of life’s inherent beauty.

Amidst the harshest winters, their hand-knotted carpets emerged as beacons, promising the sweet hope of vibrant springs—a testament to the resilience and the cyclical nature of joy.

We are prepared to mesmerize you as we unveil antique Persian tribal carpets of stories woven into every thread; we are ready to adorn your home with the beauty of a thousand tales.

Persian Tribal Zabol Rug ~1960
Nomadic Design

Tribal Rugs for Sale

One of A Kind
9' 8.14" x 7' 0.25"2.95 x 2.14 m

Persian Bakhtiari Rug ~1990, Garden Design

 1,555
One of A Kind
10' 6.38" x 7' 0.25"3.21 x 2.14 m

Persian Bakhtiari Rug ~1970, Geometric Design

 1,455
Twin Rugs
8' 0.85" x 5' 1.02"2.46 x 1.55 m

Twin Persian Tribal Nahavand Rug ~1950, Nomadic Design rug

 1,330
One of A Kind
4' 3.57" x 7' 9.31"2.37 x 1.31 m

Persian Tribal Lori Rug ~1918, Khorramabad

 1,188
One of A Kind
7' 8.13" x 5' 0.24"2.34 x 1.53 m

Persian Tribal Lori Rug ~1970, Geometric Design

 1,177
One of A Kind
4' 3.18" x 6' 10.28"2.09 x 1.3 m

Persian Tribal Luri Rug ~1968, Khorramabad

 1,066
One of A Kind
7' 6.16" x 4' 8.69"2.29 x 1.44 m

Persian Tribal Lori Rug ~1990, Animal Design

 966
One of A Kind
7' 11.28" x 4' 9.48"2.42 x 1.46 m

Persian Tribal Lori Rug ~1989, Geometric Design

 888
One of A Kind
10' 11.1" x 6' 10.68"3.33 x 2.1 m

Persian Tribal Koliai Rug ~1990, Geometric Design

 888
One of A Kind
10' 0.47" x 5' 4.17"3.06 x 1.63 m

Persian Tribal Hamadan Rug ~1978, Geometric Design

 888
One of A Kind
12' 7.18" x 10' 1.26"3.84 x 3.08 m

Persian Tribal Turkmen Rug ~1990, Geometric Design

 888
One of A Kind
9' 8.14" x 5' 4.57"2.95 x 1.64 m

Persian Tribal Hamadan Rug ~1970, Geometric Design

 886

About Persian Tribal Rugs

Iran, possessing the most extensive collection of tribal communities, is one of the most significant epicenters of tribal life globally. Within these tribes, eight of the most prominent are outlined below:

  • Qashqai
  • Shahsevan
  • Baloch
  • Turkmen
  • Afshar
  • Arab
  • Lur and Bakhtiari
  • Kurds

Numerous specialized historians in carpet weaving acknowledge tribal handwoven rugs as one of the oldest handmade carpets. The weaving techniques and knot styles commonly employed in village rug-making predominantly stem from the “NIM-LOOL” loom technique.

Among Iran’s nomadic tribes, intricate rugs are woven flat.

Notable Characteristics and Size Range of Hamadan Rugs

The concept of mental design refers to creating patterns without a designer’s predetermined plans. An individual’s taste guides these designs. The surrounding environment, such as beautiful landscapes, everyday objects, and animals, influences these imaginary designs. Each of these symbolic patterns represents the culture associated with their respective tribes. This process led to the creation of the finest traditional handwoven Persian rugs, which have gained worldwide recognition due to the simplicity of their patterns.
The dimensions of these authentic Iranian tribal rugs typically fall within the following range:

  • 120 × 80 cm (3′ 11.24″ × 2′ 7.49″)
  • 150 × 100 cm (4′ 11.06″ × 3′ 3.37″)
  • 180 × 120 cm (5′ 10.87″ × 3′ 11.24″)
  • 240 × 150 cm (7′ 10.52″ × 4′ 11.06″)
  • 300 cm × 150 cm (9′ 10.11″ x 4′ 11.06″)
  • 300 cm × 200 cm (9′ 10.11″ x 6.74″)
  • 350 cm × 250 cm (11′ 5.81″ x 8′ 2.43″) (Rare)
  • 400 cm × 300 cm (13′ 1.47″ x 9′ 10.11″) (Rare)

Runner lengths: 2 meters, 3 meters, 4 meters, 5 meters

 

Materials and Weaving Techniques, Design and Patterns

In the nomadic lifestyle, skill in weaving, especially in earlier times, held significant importance, and mastery of spinning thread from animal wool was essential knowledge. Hand-spun goat wool was commonly used for carpets due to its attributes, such as luster and durability. This type of wool exhibited its shine and ensured health benefits.

In the warp and weft of the carpets, these same wools and linen or cotton threads were primarily used. Linen fibers were extracted from a plant stem known as flax. The dyes employed for coloring the raw wool were entirely natural and plant-based, contributing to the inherent stability of the colors.

The art of weaving in tribal rugs is predominantly carried out by women and young ladies, serving as a local source of income for them. The weaving style and knotting technique in tribal rugs are flat-woven.

Tribal rugs are created using imaginary-weaving techniques. The tribal weavers function like camera lenses, capturing rare and unique scenes from nature, wildlife, birds, and objects used in the nomadic lifestyle. These images are meticulously stored in the minds and memories of the weavers and are transformed into valuable and natural handicrafts. The woven patterns express the simplicity and authenticity of nomadic life. It’s worth noting that the combination of broken and angular geometric shapes is also a prominent feature of the designs found in Iranian tribal rugs.

Techniques for Identifying Persian Tribal Rugs

Six of the most famous tribes of Iranian carpet weavers, renowned and recognized worldwide for their valuable woven carpets, are as follows:

Afshar Tribal Rugs

They are a group of Turkmen who, in the past years, resided in the Caucasus region and around Lake Urmia City. After a while, by the order of Safavid and Nader Shah (the Afshar) migrated to the vicinity of Kerman city. The Afshar carpets were woven differently depending on the region. In the Shahrbabak area, the carpets were incorporated in a single-weft structure, while in the Sirjan region, double-knots techniques were used. The distinction between the carpets woven in Shahrbabak and Sirjan lies in the designs; Shahrbabak carpets tend to have intricate and busy patterns, whereas Sirjan carpets feature more secluded designs.

Bakhtiari Tribal Carpets

The Bakhtiari tribe originates from the Kurdish regions and resides in an area stretching from Isfahan to the southern parts of Malayer. Their carpet designs predominantly feature a pattern of squares, commonly called the “Kheshti” pattern design. Within these squares, motifs of flowers, branches, birds, and animals are intricately woven. The Bakhtiari carpets incorporate a vibrant color palette, including bright red, brown, green, yellow, ivory, and white shades. However, alongside the well-known brick pattern, Bakhtiari carpets also encompass other designs such as “lachak” and “toranj” (the medallion corner design), as well as the distinct “Lori Bakhtiari” pattern.

Baloch (Baluch) Tribal Carpets

Among the most authentic tribes of Iran, they have endeavoured to preserve ancient customs and traditions in their way of life up to the present day. The genuine carpets of Iranian Baloch tribes blend elements from Afghan carpet designs and Iranian Turkmen designs. However, at times, a distinct touch of creativity is also incorporated. Patterns such as the Tree of Life and Camel Footprints are commonly featured in their designs. These carpets are predominantly woven using black wool and Persian knots. They are mostly flat-woven carpets. The colours used in these carpets are primarily shades of red, blue, chocolate brown, Ivory, and orange. Additionally, these carpets often come in elongated and narrow sizes.

Luri Nomadic Tribes’ Carpets

Luri tribes are scattered across various regions of Iran. The geometric patterns, animals, and ancient symbols related to the art and imagery of the Achaemenid era can be found in Luri tribal weavings. The knots are predominantly symmetrical and resemble the “LUL-BAF” knot.

Due to the simplicity of the designs in Luri carpets, they have gained popularity among enthusiasts of minimalist décor, especially in European settings.

Turkmen Tribal Rugs

These rugs feature unique geometric patterns and are among the most popular rugs globally. The predominant colors for Turkmen rugs are deep red and rich brown, often used for the background. Occasionally, green hues can also be observed.

Tribal Qashqai Carpets

The Qashqai tribe, located in the southwestern province of Fars in Iran, has been united since the 16th century. The language spoken by this tribe is Turkish. They possess skilled weavers who diligently work, playing a significant role in livestock farming.

The prominent feature of Qashqai carpets is their unique patterns, specific to the region. These patterns adhere to traditional designs from ancient times, crafted with a mindful weaving technique. The primary fiber used in this area is high-quality wool. Natural dyes extracted from plants such as madder, indigo, onion, and others are utilized for coloring by the tribes of this region.

In the art of Qashqai carpet weaving, the primary colors are bright red, like ruby red, deep blue, white, cream, and brown. Authentic Qashqai carpets are typically woven using symmetrical Turkish knots, occasionally incorporating asymmetric Persian knots. The entire world and the daily life of the Qashqai tribe can be observed within the patterns of these carpets, depicting animals, plants, trees, and flowers. Some patterns even feature ancient designs reminiscent of the Persepolis ruins, with motifs derived from the walls and columns of that historical site dating back to the Achaemenid era

 

Improvisation in Persian Tribal Rugs Designs

Now let’s explore some examples of the nature of mental patterns and spontaneous roles and examine them:

 

  1. The depiction of a tree symbolizes vitality and life.
  2. The lotus flower, often woven within diamond-shaped patterns, conveys strength and well-being.
  3. The symbols of a man and a woman positioned together on a rug represent a newlywed couple, believing that this symbol strongly influences fertility.
  4. The pattern of hands, commonly woven into smaller rugs, holds specific meanings:
    •   When two hands are woven at the top of the rug, it signifies peace and friendship.
    •    A single hand-woven stands for caution and warning.
  5. An eagle embodies power and supremacy.
  6. The peacock signifies defense against deceit and trickery.
  7. The triangle, according to tribal beliefs, is a symbol of a demon.
  8. A ram’s head represents grandeur and a distinguished position among its people.
  9. Diamond-shaped or nested diamond patterns are often combined with other roles. This design is woven into rugs to ward off the evil eye.

 

Nomadic Wool Selection

Tribal women use hand-spun wool for carpet weaving. This involves the traditional process of manually pulling and twisting animal wool to transform it into woolen threads. They use tools called “dashki” or “duk” to comb the wool. Due to the hand-spinning, the resulting wool tends to have a non-uniform color and doesn’t absorb dye consistently. As a result, after dyeing, the wool exhibits a play of light and shadow, contributing to the unique beauty of tribal carpets.

 

 

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In comparison to machine-spun wool, the characteristics of hand-spun wool include:

  1. Greater durability.
  2. After washing handwoven carpets, their softness and suppleness become apparent.
  3. They acquire a distinctive sheen after dyeing.

Due to these factors, hand-spun wool is considered highly traditional and valuable.

 

Raw materials for obtaining desired natural colors.

FAQ About Tribal Rugs

Valuable Iranian tribal rugs hold a distinct significance within each tribe and community in which they are produced or will be made. This value becomes particularly apparent when the power of imagination is harnessed in the design, intricate detailing, and arrangement of colors to create a unique harmony. Despite all stages being mentally woven through imaginary weaving, it presents a suitable opportunity to craft an unparalleled handmade artistic masterpiece of great worth. These rugs are not merely employed as simple floor coverings; instead, they are regarded as valuable works of art and handicrafts, showcasing the region’s rich artistic heritage and craftsmanship.

 

Four of the most well-known tribal carpet-weaving clans that are recognized, renowned, and highly valued are as follows:

  1. Afshar Tribe: Symbolic of the Turkmen people, initially located in the Caucasus region and around Lake Urmia. Later, following orders from Safavid and Nader Shah, the Afshar tribe migrated to the Kerman region. Most of their carpets are found in sizes ranging from 3 feet by 5 feet to 4 feet by 7 feet. Afshar tribal handwoven carpets represent quality and durability, featuring distinct and rare designs unique to their region.
  2. Bakhtiari Tribe: Originally of Kurdish descent, they reside in an area stretching from Isfahan to southern Malayer. Their carpets are adorned with square-by-square patterns featuring floral and vine motifs. These designs encompass ancient and natural symbols such as trees, flowers, plants, and animals, considered emblematic of Iranian art and civilization. For example, the clay design pattern stands out and is renowned as a global heritage.
  3. Baluch Tribe: Among the most authentic and distinctive Iranian tribes, they have preserved their way of life, customs, and traditions to the present day. These Iranian tribes reside on the border between Iran and Afghanistan. Baluch carpets blend Afghan and Iranian Turkmen designs, often long, narrow runners used as prayer rugs. The market for these authentic Iranian tribal carpets is predominantly in European countries. The patterns on Baluch carpets symbolize the culture, society, and blessings of the Baluch people.
  4. Qashqai Tribe: The major migration route of the Qashqai tribe stretches from the Persian Gulf to the Zagros mountain range. Mental maps of past generations have been passed down to today’s generation with minimal alterations, remaining within the framework of their customs and traditions while also considering consumer preferences. The symbolism of Qashqai (Ghashghai) carpets encompasses strength, longevity, and courage. Usually crafted from wool, Qashqai carpets showcase exquisite abstract patterns featuring quadrupeds, birds, and trees.

Generally, the rugs woven mentally and by the nomadic tribes of Iran are referred to as “tribal rugs” or “nomadic rugs.” These rugs differ significantly from urban woven rugs, initially designed by a designer, drawn on a map, and then woven by a weaver.

The most famous tribal rug-weaving tribes include the Afshar, Qashqai, Baloch, and Bakhtiari tribes.

  1. Unique and rare designs and patterns that are distinct and not commonly found are not reproduced for commercial purposes. This means these beautiful and captivating designs are crafted with a creative and artistic mindset.
  2. Premium wool is utilized as the primary fiber for these carpets, which often carries a distinct and universal language of craftsmanship.
  3. Natural dyes are employed during coloring, a tradition often upheld in vintage tribal carpets.
  4. The simplicity of the patterns plays a pivotal role in enhancing the aesthetic appeal of tribal carpets.
  5. The geographical origin and the high density of weaving contribute to the distinctive characteristics of tribal carpets.

Nomadic tribes in the land of Iran weave carpets mentally, visualizing intricate patterns. They draw inspiration for carpet weaving from rare scenes rooted in picturesque natural landscapes, wildlife, and the objects they use throughout their lives. Each object is woven into unique symbols by different tribes, creating their specific meanings. Geometric shapes and angular designs are carefully incorporated into these patterns. These efforts will result in the most exquisite handwoven carpets crafted by Iranian nomadic tribes.

If you desire to fully experience the sense of authenticity and simplicity of past generations in the comfort of your home, and if you’re seeking a pristine and valuable artisanal craft rooted in the age-old traditions and authenticity born from life experiences within natural landscapes, we recommend considering an authentic Iranian tribal handwoven rug. Recognized and renowned worldwide, these rugs can be your finest choice.

Furthermore, as someone interested in art and humanity, it’s essential to know that nomadic artisans, especially women and young girls, utilize their imaginative designs and personal tastes to create valuable handicrafts beyond mere floor coverings. Through weaving these tribal rugs, they establish a form of local income for themselves, covering a portion of their family’s expenses.

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