Shiraz

Shiraz is the capital of Fars Province in southwestern Iran and is one of the important production areas for Persian rugs. It is particularly known as a gathering place for tribal rugs woven by nomadic tribes such as the Qashqai and Luri who live in the surrounding areas.

Fars Province is also the origin of the name for the country Persia (now Iran).

Shiraz has flourished as a city of literature and art since ancient times and is famous as the birthplace of poets Hafez and Saadi. Additionally, it is close to the ancient Persian capital of Persepolis, where diverse handicrafts developed as a cultural and trading hub.

Many nomadic tribes such as the Qashqai and Luri live around Shiraz, and the tradition of weaving rugs has taken root in their self-sufficient lifestyles.

The representative handicraft is the "Gabbeh."

Origin and Weavers

Many of the rugs woven in Shiraz are crafted by the hands of local villagers and nomads.

This region spreads at the foot of the Zagros Mountains, where many nomads practice a "transhumant lifestyle," moving seasonally. They have woven rugs for personal use within their tents, prioritizing practicality.

The representative tribes are as follows:

・Qashqai Tribe (Qashqai)

・Luri Tribe

・Hamse Confederation (e.g., Basseri Tribe)

・Bakhtiari Tribe, Afshar Tribe (neighboring tribes)

・Yarami Tribe

Knots Density

Tribal rugs have a slightly coarser knot density compared to urban workshop rugs, typically ranging from about 90,000 to 180,000 knots per square meter.

This design is practical, suitable for a nomadic lifestyle. The nomads use thick wool yarn to create sturdy knots for their personal use.

As a result, they are resistant to wear and possess the durability suitable for everyday use.

While the knot density may be lower, it does not imply inferior quality; rather, the structure emphasizes practicality, showcasing high durability that withstands daily life.

Material

The material is primarily woven from high-quality local wool. The sheep raised in the Zagros Mountains are particularly rich in lanolin, giving the wool a moist luster and high durability.

For dyeing, natural plant dyes have been used since ancient times. For example, red hues are derived from madder, blue from indigo, and yellow from pomegranate peels or turmeric, utilizing readily available plant resources. Wool dyed with natural dyes undergoes a beautiful aging process, developing a rich color and sheen over time.

In recent years, rugs dyed with chemical dyes have increased, but traditional rug making in Shiraz still tends to emphasize natural dyeing.

Cultural Value

Shiraz has been known as a center of literature and art since ancient times, nurturing many cultural figures and artisans. Its location on the southern Silk Road made it an important trading hub.

In 2010, the "traditional rug weaving techniques of Fars Province" were registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

This is a testament to the techniques and aesthetic sensibilities of nomads that have been passed down for centuries, recognized globally.

Today, rugs from Shiraz are loved worldwide as "usable art," combining artistic expression with practicality.