What is Gabbeh?

Have you heard of Gabbeh , a colorful and warm hand-woven carpet?

Gabbeh is a particularly popular type of Persian carpet, and its rustic and warm design has captivated many people.

In this article, we will explain in detail what Gabbeh is, its appeal and characteristics, the differences between the types (ranks), how to choose wisely, price guidelines, and how to care for it.

If you are interested in Gabbeh, please take a look at this article.

Gabbeh is a thick wool carpet that has traditionally been hand-woven by nomadic peoples (such as the Qashqai and Luli peoples) mainly from the Shiraz region in southwestern Iran (formerly Persia).

The name comes from a Persian word meaning "coarse" or "roughly" and, as the name suggests, this carpet has a coarse, rustic weave and long fibers.

Originally, it was made by nomads who used their own wool roughly woven to create a fluffy blanket to use as bedding in mountainous areas where there are large temperature differences.

Each piece is handmade by nomads, and each motif, such as geometric patterns and animals, has a meaning behind it, making them one-of-a-kind "works of art with a story."

The appeal and characteristics of Gabbeh

The warmth of materials and design

The greatest appeal of Gabbeh rugs is their simple, tasteful design and soft texture.

The fabric is made from high-quality, long-haired wool, and the yarn is hand-spun by women before being dyed with natural dyes, resulting in natural colours that are not too bright and blend well with any interior decor.

This carpet is thick and fluffy to the touch, so it is warm and comfortable to sit or lie on.

Gabbeh patterns and their meanings

Animal symbols

Lion : Symbol of Honor and Victory
Camel : Symbol of happiness and wealth
The peacock : a symbol of holiness and humanity
Dogs : Symbols of protection and security
The rooster : a symbol of protection from evil
Birds : Symbols of trust and prosperity
Bull/Cow : Symbol of nature and humanity
Dragon : Symbol of Power
Duck : Symbol of marital fertility and joy
Eagle : Symbol of power
Parrot : Symbol of protection and security
Scarab (insect) : symbol of protection
Scorpion : Symbol of protection
Snake : Symbol of knowledge and prosperity

Plant symbols

Blossom : Symbol of newness and marriage
Burdock : Symbol of fertility and protection from evil spirits
Cypress : Symbol of eternal life
Grain : A symbol of fertility
Hyacinth : A symbol of rebirth
The Iris : A Symbol of Religious Freedom
Lily : A symbol of innocence and devotion
The lotus : a symbol of life and rebirth
Tree of Life : Symbol of eternity and longevity
Pomegranate : For children
Tulips : a symbol of wealth

Other symbols

Water : Symbol of life and purity
Fire : Symbol of divine power
Hand and comb : symbol of protection and family safety
Vine : Symbol of wealth and eternal life

High practicality

Gabbeh rugs are not only beautiful to look at, but also highly practical.

Wool material has excellent moisture-regulating and insulating properties, absorbing moisture to keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter , making it comfortable to use all year round.

It is hand-woven and has a tight weave, making it highly durable, and it is also attractive for its sturdiness, resistance to dirt, and lack of wear.

In fact, it is said that if properly cared for, they can last for over 100 years and are often passed down from generation to generation.

It also has soundproofing effects, so just laying it down will soften the sound of footsteps and prevent scratches on the flooring.

Easy to incorporate into interior design

Gabbeh can be used in a variety of ways, including laying it on the floor as a rug in the living room or bedroom, draping it over a sofa or chair to cover it, or displaying it on the wall like a tapestry.

The rustic yet colorful Gabbeh matches both Japanese and Western-style rooms, adding a cozy warmth and accent to the room.

Gabbehs combine timeless design with practicality, making them carpets that are great to use and great to look at, and can be worn for a lifetime.

Types and ranks of Gabbeh

Although they are all called Gabbeh, they are divided into several ranks (grades) depending on the fineness of the weaving and the intricacy of the design.

Generally, the types are ranked in order of coarseness of the weave as follows: "Ordinary Gabbeh" < "Amarebakth" < "Kashkuri", and the finer the weave, the more luxurious the product is considered.

Normal Gabbeh

This is the most orthodox Gabbeh.

They tend to have simple and bold designs, and are thick and fluffy with long pile. The weave is coarse, but this gives them a high level of cushioning and a rustic feel. Most Gabbehs are of this type, and are ranked around mid-rank.

Amarebakhut Gabbeh

Amarebakht is a mid-level Gabbeh.

Woven using thick threads, it features vibrant colors and bold designs. The long pile makes it thick and comfortable to walk on.

Its quality is somewhere between the finely woven Kashkuri and the coarsely woven Gabbeh, and it has just the right amount of detail and rustic feel. It is also more affordable than Kashkuri, making it a popular type that is easy to use for everyday use.

Kashkuri Gabbeh

Kashkuri is the highest grade of Gabbeh.

They are woven with great fineness and intricacy by skilled artisans of the Qashqai people, and the patterns are intricately expressed down to the smallest detail.

As a result, the carpet is slightly thinner, but the floral and animal motifs that are painted throughout are intricately woven into it, making for beautiful, striking details.

Made using advanced craftsmanship and using high-quality wool, they are extremely durable and are treated as masterpieces with art-like value.

Points to consider when purchasing a Gabbeh rug (selection and price)

Check size and use

When choosing a Gabbeh, first choose the size that suits the place and purpose you will be laying it down. There are various sizes, from mini sizes (approximately 30-60cm) that can be used as entrance mats or chair mats, to large sizes (2-3m) that can be the main focus of your living room.

Measure the appropriate dimensions depending on how you will use it, such as a smaller mat size for the entrance or kitchen, and a spacious larger size for the living room or bedroom.

It's also nice to combine several small Gabbeh rugs together.

Design and color

Each Gabbeh rug has a different design, so be sure to find your favorite pattern.

You can choose from colorful tones to match the atmosphere of your room. The gentle colors of vegetable dyes are not too bold and match well with Japanese modern spaces.

For example, green and blue Gabbehs give a natural and refreshing impression, while red and orange ones make the space look gorgeous and warm.

The patterns vary from cute ones with animal motifs to simple ones with only geometric patterns, so it's best to choose a design that you intuitively think is the one.

Quality (fineness of weave)

As mentioned above, Gabbehs are ranked according to the fineness of the weave.

A high-grade Kashkuri Gabbeh is recommended for those who want to use it for a long time and enjoy artistic details.

The delicate pattern and glossy texture will satisfy your desire to own it.

On the other hand, if you want a thick rug that you can use on a daily basis or if you want to enjoy a rustic feel, then Amarebakht or Nomad Gabbeh (standard Gabbeh) would be suitable.

Although the weave is a little coarse, it is flexible, cushioned, and durable enough for everyday use.

It's best to actually touch it to see if it has the thickness and feel you like.

Price guide

The price of a gabbeh varies greatly depending on the size and rank. A typical hand-woven gabbeh costs around 10,000 to 20,000 yen for a small cushion size (approximately 40 x 40 cm), around 30,000 to 50,000 yen for a medium size (approximately 50 x 80 cm), and some large ones for the living room (approximately 80 x 120 cm or more) can cost over 100,000 yen .

In addition, the highest quality Kashkuris and those with rare designs can be even more expensive (from hundreds of thousands of yen).

It's a good idea to choose within your budget and cherish the fateful encounter that makes you think, "This is it!"

In recent years, inexpensive machine-woven Gabbeh-style rugs have become available on the market, but the warmth and durability of hand-woven Gabbehs are in a class of their own.

Although it may be a little pricey, a genuine hand-woven Gabbeh will be well worth it in the long run.

Points to check when purchasing

It is safe to buy from a trusted specialty store.

Check the back to make sure the knot is tightly knotted.

Also, you may be bothered by the smell of wool, but don't worry, it will fade naturally as you use it.

If you have any concerns, be sure to ask the store staff to clarify.

Overall, the key to choosing a Gabbeh is to choose one that suits your lifestyle.

*If you are purchasing a Gabbeh for the first time, we recommend trying out a smaller size. Smaller Gabbehs are affordable and easy to handle, so you can try using them in your daily life first to see how good they are.

How to maintain (care for) your Gabbeh

Daily care is also important to ensure that you can enjoy your favorite Gabbeh for a long time.

Basically, no complicated maintenance is required, and the durable Gabbeh rug requires only vacuuming for regular maintenance .

Vacuum slowly in the direction of the fur to pick up dust and dirt.

Gabbeh carpets have a coarse mesh so dirt does not easily accumulate in the back, so they can be kept clean by vacuuming frequently.

If dirt is present

If water-soluble stains, such as accidentally spilling a drink, get on the item, it is important to immediately absorb the moisture with a paper towel or dry cloth.

Do not rub hard, but tap gently to allow the product to soak in.

After that, gently dab the fabric with a damp cloth that has been wrung out tightly to remove the stain. Wool contains natural oils, so even a little water will not penetrate the fibers easily, so if you take your time, you can prevent stains from forming.

If the stain is solid, such as mud, wait until it dries before vacuuming it up or gently scraping it off with a brush.

Tips for daily management

If you continue to step on just one spot, the pile may become flat in some areas, so to ensure an even fit, it is a good idea to occasionally change the direction or location of the carpet .

In addition, if the furniture is exposed to direct sunlight for long periods of time, it is a good idea to use curtains to soften the sunlight or to move them regularly to prevent fading.

When you first start using the rug, some loose fibers (floating hairs on the surface) may appear, but this is not a defect but a phenomenon unique to wool rugs.

It will gradually settle down as you vacuum it up.

Laundry and cleaning

Generally, Gabbeh rugs do not need to be washed at home.

If you are concerned about stains, we recommend consulting a professional cleaning company or the cleaning service provided by the store where you purchased the item.

If you try to wash it at home, there is a risk of discoloration or shrinkage.

If you have it professionally maintained every few years, you can continue to use it for a long time while maintaining its beautiful color and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. What country does Gabbeh carpet come from?

A. It is a hand-woven carpet originating from Iran (Persia). It has been made since ancient times by nomads living around the Zagros Mountains in southwestern Iran.

In other words, Gabbeh is a type of Persian carpet, and in particular it refers to thick, long-pile carpets woven by nomads for their own use.

Q2. What is the difference between a Gabbeh and a typical Persian carpet?

A. Typical Persian carpets are characterized by very intricate patterns, but Gabbeh carpets have a more rustic and casual feel.

Because nomads weave the fabric using their free imagination, the designs are generous and the fibers are long and fluffy.

Both are Persian carpets, but Gabbehs are special in their simplicity and thickness .

Q3. What is the lifespan of a Gabbeh?

A. It is very durable and, if properly cared for, can last for 50 to 100 years .

There are also "old Gabbehs" on the market that have been used for decades and have developed a unique character.

If you take good care of it by vacuuming it regularly and avoiding moisture, it will last long enough to be passed down to the next generation.

Q4. Doesn't it get hot to lay a wool Gabbeh rug in the summer?

A. It can be used comfortably in the summer without any problems.

Wool has a moisture-regulating effect, absorbing moisture in the summer and making it feel dry against the skin.

On the other hand, Gabbeh rugs have excellent heat retention and feel warm in winter, making them comfortable to use all year round.

In fact, wool rugs are recommended especially in the summer as they help prevent the air conditioner from getting too cold.

Q5. Is it difficult to care for a Gabbeh?

A. No, basically it just needs to be vacuumed and no special care is required.

As explained in the maintenance methods in this article, if the product gets dirty, it will be less likely to get stained if you deal with it early.

The material is highly durable and stain-resistant, so you can use it on a daily basis without worrying too much.

If you are still unsure, you can lightly apply a stain-proofing spray or have it professionally cleaned every few years for added peace of mind.

Gabbeh rugs are rustic yet powerful, and just one piece can warm up and brighten up the atmosphere of a room.

Due to its high practicality and design, it has become increasingly popular in recent years, and there are many fans who aspire to own a real Gabbeh someday.

Find your favorite one and enjoy the warmth that only Gabbeh can provide.