What are Shahsavan?

Introduction

The Shahsavan tribe, located in northwest Iran near the Soviet frontier, is a nomadic pastoralist community renowned for their rich cultural heritage and traditional way of life. Among their various artistic expressions, the art of rug making stands out as a distinctive and significant craft. This article explores the Shahsavan tribe's historical background, their seasonal migration patterns, and delves into the intricate world of their rug making tradition.

Historical Background

The origins of the Shahsavan tribe can be traced back to the 18th century when different tribal people in northeast Azerbaijan united under the same name. Initially formed by Shah Abbas Safavid to defend his western frontiers, the Shahsavan were granted lands in northeast Azerbaijan for summer and winter pasturage. Over time, the tribe split into two major confederations, Ardabil and Meshkin, with the former settling as villagers around the city of Ardabil while the latter continued their nomadic pastoral lifestyle.

The Shahsavan faced significant challenges when they lost their northern Azerbaijani pastures to Russia after the Treaty of Turkmanchai in 1828. This loss led to violent disputes, raiding, and rebellion against both Iranian and Russian authorities. Subsequently, the Shahsavan underwent forced sedentarisation policies in the early 20th century under Reza Shah Pahlavi's rule, which had adverse social and economic effects on the tribe. However, with the fall of Reza Shah in 1941, the Shahsavan, along with other nomadic tribes, resumed their traditional migratory lifestyle.

Seasonal Migration

The Shahsavan's seasonal migration is a defining aspect of their cultural identity. Approximately 40,000 individuals migrate annually between their winter quarters in the Mughan steppe of Azerbaijan and their summer quarters around Mount Sabalan. The migration begins around 45 days after the spring equinox, with the timing influenced by weather conditions.

The migration process involves several camps forming a caravan consisting of tents, animals, and belongings. Camels play a crucial role in transporting women, children, and various items. The migration takes place during the early morning hours, with designated leaders organising different groups' movements. The Shahsavan cover a distance of approximately 150 miles over three to four weeks, setting up temporary campsites along the way.

Rug Making Tradition

Within the Shahsavan tribe, the art of rug making holds great cultural and economic significance. Rug weaving is predominantly performed by women, and it represents a form of creative expression, cultural preservation, and a means of generating income for the community.

Shahsavan rugs are characterised by their intricate designs, bold colors, and high-quality craftsmanship. These rugs often feature geometric patterns, animal motifs, and symbolic representations reflecting the tribe's cultural heritage. Natural dyes sourced from plants and minerals are traditionally used to achieve vibrant and long-lasting colors.

The process of rug making involves several stages, including shearing the sheep, cleaning and spinning the wool, dyeing the yarn, and finally, weaving the rug on a vertical loom. The weavers employ various weaving techniques and knots to create the intricate patterns and designs unique to Shahsavan rugs. It requires exceptional skill, patience, and attention to detail to produce a high-quality rug.

The rugs produced by the Shahsavan tribe are highly sought after by collectors and rug enthusiasts worldwide. They are not only valued for their aesthetic appeal but also for the cultural heritage and stories they represent.

Preserving the Shahsavan Rug Making Tradition

In recent years, the Shahsavan tribe has faced challenges in maintaining their traditional way of life and rug making practices. Socioeconomic changes, including large-scale agro-industrial development projects and the globalisation of markets, have had a significant impact on the Shahsavan community. As younger generations seek educational and employment opportunities in urban areas, there is a concern about the transmission of rug making skills and knowledge to future generations.

To address these challenges and preserve the Shahsavan rug making tradition, several initiatives have been undertaken. These include:

1. Cultural Revival Programs: Efforts have been made to promote the cultural heritage of the Shahsavan tribe through cultural festivals, exhibitions, and workshops. These events provide a platform for the community to showcase their rugs, share their traditions, and raise awareness about the importance of preserving their craft.

2. Skill Training and Education: Programs have been implemented to train younger members of the tribe in rug making techniques. By providing access to workshops and training sessions, the skills and knowledge of the older generations are passed down to the next. Additionally, incorporating rug making into formal education systems helps ensure its continuity.

3. Market Access and Fair Trade: Facilitating fair trade practices and improving market access for Shahsavan rugs can contribute to the economic sustainability of the community. Collaborations with fair trade organisations and establishing direct connections between weavers and buyers can help the Shahsavan tribe receive fair compensation for their craftsmanship and support the continuation of their rug making tradition.

4. Documentation and Research: Documenting the history, techniques, and designs of Shahsavan rugs plays a vital role in preserving their cultural heritage. Researchers, anthropologists, and historians are actively involved in documenting the tribal knowledge, collecting oral histories, and conducting research to better understand the significance of Shahsavan rug making within the broader context of Iranian culture.

5. International Recognition and Support: Seeking international recognition for the Shahsavan rug making tradition can raise its profile and attract support for its preservation. This can include applying for UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage designation, which helps safeguard and promote cultural practices worldwide.

By implementing these initiatives, the Shahsavan tribe strives to maintain their traditional way of life and safeguard the art of rug making for future generations. The support of governmental organisations, NGOs, and individuals interested in cultural preservation is crucial in ensuring the continued existence and vitality of this remarkable craft.