FLORAL QASHQAI CARPET 275 x 136 CM 9′ x 4′ 6″

This exquisite Qashqai carpet presents a captivating all-over design featuring a rich madder red field densely populated with an enchanting menagerie of stylised animals and traditional tribal motifs. The composition showcases numerous four-legged creatures, likely representing horses, deer, and other animals significant to nomadic culture, each rendered in contrasting navy blue and ivory tones that create striking definition against the warm terracotta background. Interspersed throughout the animal motifs are classic Qashqai geometric elements, including rosettes, stars, and tribal symbols that fill the field with authentic nomadic artistry and cultural storytelling.

The animals are depicted in the characteristic stylised manner of tribal weaving, with each creature displaying the distinctive angular forms and symbolic representation that reflects the weaver’s connection to pastoral life. The carpet features traditional Qashqai borders with geometric patterns and complementary motifs that frame the lively central composition, whilst the overall palette of rich reds, deep blues, and natural ivory demonstrates the masterful use of traditional dyes.

This Qashqai carpet exemplifies the narrative tradition of Persian tribal weaving, where each animal and symbol tells a story of nomadic heritage, creating a piece that serves as both functional floor covering and a vibrant tapestry of cultural expression and artistic craftsmanship.

Dimensions: 275 x 136 CM 9′ x 4′ 6″

Qashqai Carpet

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 two times a year south of Isfahan, Fars, and Khuzestan province of Iran (mostly surrounding Fars province), speaking in the Turkish language, and 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.