In conclusion, the reason why Gabbehs are so expensive is due to a combination of factors: the materials and the effort required for dyeing, the time and skill required for hand weaving, the import and distribution costs, and their rarity. Gabbehs are handwoven carpets woven by nomads in southern Iran, and have a unique warmth and durability. Here we will explain in detail the reasons for their value and price.
Materials and dyeing effort
Gabbehs are made from high-quality sheep's wool, especially oily, long-fiber wool, which is durable and lustrous. However, this wool itself is expensive. Furthermore, the yarn is often hand-spun, which is time-consuming and labor-intensive.
In addition, the dyes used for Gabbeh are plant dyes. This method involves boiling natural dyes derived from plants and repeatedly drying them, and requires many steps until the color is fixed. Since mass production is difficult, the rarity of Gabbeh is reflected in the price.
Time and Technique of Handweaving
Gabbeh carpets are hand-knotted, with each thread tied individually to create a unique pattern. The higher the knot density (the number of knots per square centimeter), the more time it takes and the more advanced the technique required.
It is not uncommon for it to take several months or even a year to complete a single piece. Experienced weavers sometimes weave the image in their heads directly without using blueprints. Since there are only a limited number of highly skilled weavers, labor costs also drive up the price.
Import and distribution costs
The leather is transported from the mountainous regions where it is produced to urban areas, where it is washed and finished before being exported, which adds transportation costs, customs duties, and inspection costs to the process.
In addition, due to the characteristics of wool and plant dyes, storage costs are incurred for insect control, humidity control, etc. Furthermore, since Gabbehs are often one-of-a-kind items, inventory risk is also reflected in the selling price.
Rarity (workshop/place of origin)
There are only a limited number of workshops and production areas that produce high-quality Gabbeh rugs. It is difficult to obtain the same size or design again, so it is often a once-in-a-lifetime encounter.
Furthermore, production is declining due to the aging of weavers and a lack of successors. As a result, Gabbehs are becoming increasingly rare, and are attracting attention as investment carpets that maintain their value.
summary
The reason why Gabbeh is so expensive is because it is not just a decorative item, but a craft that has all the elements of "material, technique, distribution, and rarity." By knowing the background of the price, you can properly understand its value.
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