Khamseh rug, Returned SL August 2024

Khamseh rug

from southern Persia

late 19th century

Size: 212 x 158 cm

The Khamseh are a confederacy of five tribes who banded together in the 1860s purportedly to combat the might of the neighbouring Qashqa’i tribes. In the 19th century they produced rugs similar in character to those of the Qashqa’i. The overall palette was, however, somewhat darker and the warp material invariably brown undyed wool. The two ivory ground central medallions and the surrounding dark brown field in this rug are covered with a profusion of charming long-necked chickens in the most vibrant palette.