How to distinguish between fake and genuine Gabbeh rugs: weave, material, and history are key
The most important thing when purchasing a Gabbeh is the ability to distinguish between genuine and fake. In conclusion, you can spot many fakes by checking three things: the weaving structure, the quality of the materials, and the provenance. Gabbehs are thick, hand-woven carpets woven by nomads in southwestern Iran, stitch by stitch, and are fundamentally different from industrially produced or imitations made in other countries.
Why counterfeits are in circulation
As Gabbeh's popularity grows, there are an increasing number of cases where machine-woven carpets and similar products made in India and China are sold as "Gabbeh." The generalization of the name has led to misunderstandings, and many products do not adequately indicate their origin or materials. In particular, caution is required regarding sales methods that promote mass-produced products as "one-of-a-kind" items, or cases where consumers are attracted by extreme discounts.
Authentic distinguishing features
Genuine Gabbehs have irregular knots on the underside, revealing the individuality of the artisan. The hems and fringes are woven into the body of the rug, with no traces of glue or stitching. The material is hand-spun wool, characterized by its suppleness and warmth due to the natural oils. The dyes used are often natural, derived from plants and minerals, which have a deeper color than artificial dyes and fade gently over time. They are also not perfectly symmetrical, and slight distortions or size variations are signs of authenticity.
Important points to note when purchasing
When purchasing, it is important to check the country of origin (Iran), materials, type of dye, region of production, and year of production. Whether or not a company offers cleaning and repair services is also a criterion for determining trustworthiness. The appropriateness of the price should be determined based on multiple factors, including size, knot density, and material. It's a good idea to refer to the [ Complete Guide to Gabbeh Prices and Market Values ] beforehand to ensure peace of mind.
Conditions for a reliable dealer
The reliability of the retailer is also important to ensure you are purchasing authentic items with peace of mind. Stores that can show their local procurement routes and purchasing records are considered highly trustworthy. Also, make sure that they provide high-resolution photos of each item, including the back, as well as actual weight and density measurements. Whether they offer cleaning or repair services after purchase is also a factor that will determine your long-term satisfaction.
Gabbehs are artistic, hand-woven carpets that are one of a kind in the world. By understanding the difference between genuine and fake, you can find one that you can cherish for a long time.
