Tribal Rugs

Tribal Rugs Overview

Tribal rugs are carpets made by nomadic or small tribal communities. Each tribe has its own weaving style and traditions. These carpets are deeply rooted in their culture and natural environment and show tribal characteristics in their designs, colors and motifs.

Bakhtiari

Bakhtiari carpets are characterised by their colourful and intricate designs. They are mainly produced in the Zagros Mountains region of south-west Iran and often feature geometric and animal motifs. Weavers use wool to create tightly knotted carpets that last. They also have a high pile, which provides a luxurious feel when walking on them.

Bharuch

Baluchi carpets are small and feature dark colours such as navy blue and crimson with accents of white and orange. Geometric patterns, the tree of life and camel motifs are common. These carpets are popular and the production process often involves the whole family.

Qashqai

Qashqai carpets are known for their vibrant, deep colors and bold designs. These carpets are durable and soft to the touch. The Qashqai tribe are nomadic people from southwestern Iran, and their designs are rooted in their lives and the natural environment.

Turkmen

Turkmen carpets are characterised by geometric patterns made in bold reds and browns, often featuring the octagonal gyul motif. These carpets are woven using single and double knot techniques, and are a traditional style that has been preserved to this day.

Afshar

Afshar carpets feature geometric patterns that represent rich cultural symbols and are often in bright colours. These carpets come in a variety of sizes and shapes and are made from high-quality materials, making them long-lasting works of art.

Shiraz

Shiraz carpets are characterised by a diverse range of designs influenced by neighbouring regions, with geometric designs, pole medallions, layered borders and colours that vary depending on the age of the piece, made from wool or cotton with a loose pile.

Gabbeh

Gabbeh carpets are characterised by simple designs and bright colours. These carpets are thick and can have a pile length of up to 2.5cm. The dyes used are natural, making them environmentally friendly.

Bukhara

Bukhara is a hand-woven carpet originating from the city of Bukhara in Uzbekistan, characterized by its octagonal motif. The design was influenced by the Teke carpets of Turkmenistan, which share the deep red color and "gul" motif. Although Bukhara is not a carpet-producing center, it established itself as a commercial city, and its carpets spread to the West.

Mashwani

The Mashwani are a tribe that live in Pakistan and Afghanistan, and Mashwani rugs are their signature carpet. They are characterised by geometric designs, with pile and flat weaves combined to create a three-dimensional effect with unevenness. There is almost no white space in the design, and diamond motifs are prevalent. Mashwani carpets have been woven for centuries and were originally used as wedding gifts.