What is Gabbeh? Exploring the charm of traditional hand-woven carpets

Gabbeh is a particularly popular type of Persian carpet, and its simple and warm design has attracted many people. In this article, we will introduce the charm, characteristics, and history of Gabbeh in an easy-to-understand manner!

History and Origin of Gabbeh

Gabbeh carpets are traditional wool carpets woven by the Qashqai people, a nomadic tribe living in the Zakros Mountains of Persia. They are attractive for their cute animal motifs and thick, fluffy texture that are not found in other Persian carpets. Tribal women carefully weave each carpet while expressing their memories, daily lives, and dreams, so Gabbehs are not just carpets, but artworks with stories. The colors and designs that evoke the desert, rivers, and nature reflect the lifestyles of the tribe.

Characteristics of Gabbeh

Gabbeh comes from the Persian word meaning "rustic" or "coarse," and it is a rough, warm carpet, just as its name suggests. Animal and natural motifs are often used, and the wool is hand-spun and dyed with vegetable dyes, so the colors are soft and natural.

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 : A 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

Gabbeh rank

The rank of a Gabbeh carpet is determined by the density of the weave, the quality of the wool, the complexity of the design, and the vividness of the colors. The higher the rank, the more the carpet is valued for its beauty, durability, and design, and therefore the higher its value. Below are some of the most common types of Gabbeh carpets.

Kashkuri Gabbeh

Kashkuri Gabbeh is characterized by its fine and dense weaving and is manufactured by the Qashqai people. The use of thin threads makes the design very precise and delicate. The carpet is thin and the details stand out, featuring detailed floral and animal motifs. Due to its high level of craftsmanship and use of high-quality wool, Kashkuri Gabbeh is considered to be highly valuable as a high-ranking carpet.

Amarebakhut Gabbeh

Amarebakht Gabbeh has bold designs and vivid colors due to its thick threads. It features simple and cute designs, long and fluffy pile, and has a heavy carpet. It has a coarse texture compared to the fine-grained Kashkuri, but has characteristics that are somewhere between the two. It is also considered a mid-rank carpet that meets specific needs.