What are Hand Woven Afshah Persian Rugs?

Afshah is the name of a Iranian tribal group or clan.  These days Afshah people are spread over a wide area of Iran but there are two main groups. One in the south and the other in the north. Their language is of Turkic orign with many unique dialects.

The rugs that they weave are destinctive and relativly easy to identify. They favour brilliant clear reds and blues particulally those rugs woven near Sirjan. The designs are gometric rather than floral. Generally speaking Afshah rugs tend to be square rather than long and narrow and large sizes are quite rare. The rugs are invariably wool pile woven on to a cotton warp and weft.

The kilims they weave are also worth consideration because they represent good value. 

In keeping with their nomadic heritage the Afshari are also renowned for their tribal weavings. Items like saddle bags, tent bands, salt bags  and saddle covers are much sought after by collectors these days.

The Afshah people have a rich cultural heritage that reflects their nomadic way of life and their unique traditions. Historically, the Afshah were known for their skill as horsemen, and they would often travel long distances to trade goods and livestock with other tribes. They also had a complex social structure, with various clans and sub-clans organized around a system of chiefs and elders. Today, many Afshah continue to follow traditional customs, such as celebrating weddings and other important events with music and dance, and practicing their own form of folk medicine. Despite the challenges of modernization and urbanization, the Afshah people remain proud of their heritage and continue to preserve their cultural traditions for future generations.

Afshah rugs are highly valued for their distinctive style and high quality craftsmanship. They are typically woven using wool pile on a cotton warp and weft, and feature bold geometric designs with bright colors, such as red, blue, and ivory. The patterns often include stylized floral motifs, geometric shapes, and intricate borders.

One of the most notable features of Afshah rugs is their square shape, which sets them apart from other types of Persian rugs that are more commonly rectangular or oval. Additionally, they are generally smaller in size compared to other Persian rugs, making them ideal for use in smaller spaces or as accent pieces.

The Afshah people have been weaving rugs for centuries, and their weaving techniques and patterns have been passed down through generations. They use a variety of weaving techniques, including knotting and flatweave, to create different textures and patterns in their rugs. Some of the most prized Afshah rugs are those woven by nomadic tribespeople, which are often more rustic in appearance and feature simpler designs.

Today, Afshah rugs remain highly sought after by collectors and decorators alike, and they continue to be produced in various regions of Iran. While the designs and colors may vary slightly depending on the specific region where the rug was made, the overall style and quality of Afshah rugs remains consistent, making them a timeless and valuable addition to any home or collection.