Antique Qashqai Saddlebag. Circa 1890.

Antique Qashqai Saddlebag*. Circa 1890 (possibly earlier). Saddlebag with 2 faces / bags and complete.

High-quality, lanolin-rich wool. Face hand-knotted with a deep wool pile with natural dyes. The back is natural (light brown) plain-weave. Dominated by burnt and light oranges, deep indigo blue and ivory.

Design & Motifs: Each face Includes 6 Guls in medallion form, bordered by stylized zig-zag motifs and geometric floral patterns. Richly coloured, and rarity in the rich orange colours.

Condition: Excellent condition. Nice soft pile. Retaining original saddlebag opening loops.

Dimensions:

Height = 96 cm (forming 2 small saddlebags).

Width = 53 cm

*Antique Bagface handwoven textile, made by the nomadic Qashqai tribes of South Iran. These faces were originally the front panels of a khorjin (double saddlebag) used for storage and transport during migrations. Tribal Textile Characteristics:

Design & Motifs: Classic designs often feature a central hooked medallion or diamond surrounded by rosettes and animal figures. Some include symbolic patterns like the boteh (paisley) or cypress trees.

Materials: Woven from high-quality, handspun wool on a wool foundation, often utilizing natural dyes like indigo and madder.

Function: While originally functional for tribal use, they are now highly collectible as wall art, cushions, or small decorative rugs.