Qashqa’i double bags (2), Exhibition ‘South Persian Tribal Rugs’

Qashqa’i double bags (2)

from southern Persia

early 20th century

Size: 60 x 51 cm

The Qashqa’i were nomadic pastoralists herding sheep and goats and for whom weaving all sorts of items was central to their culture. Horses were perhaps their most important animals and cared for like no other. Saddle bags are made in all rug weaving areas in a wide variety of techniques, both pile and flatweave, and show infinite variety in patterns and colour. They consist of two pouches which can be hung over a shoulder, across a saddle, or over the animal’s rump.