QASHQAI DERRASHURI CARPET 285 x 212 CM 9′ 4″ x 7′

This remarkable Qashqai carpet woven by the ladies of the Derrashuri tribe features a distinctive diamond-shaped central field in soft grey-blue tones, densely populated with an enchanting array of stylised rams that create a captivating pastoral scene. The birds in the 4 spandrels are Quail and in persian folklore and poetry represent love and affection. The jagged borders surrounding the medallion and selvage are known as makhel and give protection not only to the carpet but also the the artisans.  There is a signiture in Farsi saying wild animals. this carpet was woven in the Bakhtiari region of the Zagros mountains 40 years ago by the ladies of the Derrashuri tribe (QASHQAI). probably for a tribal khan.

The central diamond medallion dozens of four-legged creatures, likely representing sheep, goats, horses, and other livestock essential to nomadic life, each meticulously woven in contrasting colours that stand out beautifully against the muted blue-grey ground. The animals are rendered in the characteristic tribal style with simplified yet expressive forms, creating a lively composition that tells the story of nomadic herding traditions.

Surrounding the central diamond, the field transitions to warm terracotta and rust tones that provide a striking colour contrast and frame the animal-filled medallion with complementary geometric patterns and scattered tribal motifs. The carpet is finished with traditional Qashqai borders featuring zigzag patterns and geometric designs in harmonious earth tones that perfectly complement the central composition. This Qashqai carpet exemplifies the narrative tradition of Persian tribal weaving, where the depiction of animals reflects the weaver’s connection to pastoral life and nomadic heritage, creating a piece that combines functional artistry with cultural storytelling through its masterful use of symbolic imagery and sophisticated colour balance.

Dimensions: 285 x212 CM 9’4″ x 7′

Qashqai Carpets

The Qashqai carpets originate from one of Iran’s most renowned nomadic tribes, native to the Fars Province of southwestern Iran, primarily inhabiting the majestic Zagros Mountains. The Qashqai people lived in central Asia and the Caucasus region for many centuries before moving to their current home region, creating a rich cultural heritage that spans over six centuries of continuous weaving tradition. Qashqai carpets have been said to be “probably the most famous of all Persian tribal weavings”, representing the pinnacle of nomadic artistry and craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations of skilled tribal weavers.

Qashqai tribes usually migrate once a year  with thier flocks of sheep and goatsto the high valleys of the Zagros mountains Fars province) where the climate  and grazing for the flocks is compatable for producing the quality wool which is highly prized among the carpet weavers. Speaking the Turkic language this nomadic lifestyle profoundly influences their carpet designs. These exceptional pieces are characterised by their vibrant geometric patterns, often featuring bold diamond medallions, stylised animals, and intricate tribal motifs that reflect the weavers’ deep connection to their pastoral environment. The carpets typically employ the Turkish symmetrical knot on wool foundations, with lustrous hand-spun wool pile that creates remarkable durability and visual depth.

Traditional colour palettes include rich crimsons, deep navy blues, and warm earth tones achieved through natural vegetable dyes. Each Qashqai carpet represents not merely a floor covering but a testament to the enduring spirit of nomadic culture, making these pieces highly coveted by collectors worldwide for their authentic tribal character and exceptional artistic merit.