Antique Qashqai chanteh or bag from Iran. 120x59 cms

Authentic Antique Qashqai Chanteh: A Glimpse into Tribal Life

Enjoy this large and truly authentic chanteh, or tribal bag, a piece that feels untouched by commercial circuits. Woven with a white cotton warp and weft, it’s vibrantly decorated with a array of colorful wool motifs.

The borders and horizontal dividing lines are crafted with the intricate knotted technique (pile), providing rich texture. In contrast, the charming animal figures—herds of goats or sheep and flocks of birds—are rendered in a flat weave technique, showcasing the weaver’s diverse skill.

The back of this tribal bag adds to its intrigue with scattered motifs and woolen knots, creating a wonderfully organic feel. This chanteh exudes the essence of a personal tribal bag, clearly made for daily use rather than for sale.

By acquiring this piece, you bring home a small part of genuine tribal culture. All the dyes are natural, featuring a rich palette of navy blue, pumpkin orange, earthy browns, and more, reflecting the natural world from which it came.

Material: 100% hand-spun sheep wool and cotton (white areas)

Size: 120×59 cms

Origin: Qashqai tribe, Iran

Date of weaving: 1940s

Turkic-speaking pastoral nomadic tribal groups began entering central and southern Iran during the eleventh and twelfth centuries.The Qashqai, as a large tribal unit, dates back at least to the early eighteenth century, when some Turkish(Turki)-speaking tribal groups in the region existed under the name Qashqai.

Qashqai kilims are best known for their boldness and and freedom in the way the pattern is drawn. An aesthetically pleasing geometry, the fineness of their wool and their clear, strong colours combine to ensure their reputation as superlative examples.