Semi-antique Qashqai saddlebag or Khorjin, Iran. 122x87 cms

Discover This Unique Antique Qashqai Saddlebag (khorjin)

Are you searching for a truly unusual and original saddlebag? Look no further.

The captivating design of this antique Qashqai saddlebag was achieved using the warp-float weave technique. This specialized method is typically reserved for narrower pieces, such as tent bands, or in this instance, saddlebags, allowing for incredibly intricate detail. Here, black goat hair is combined with white cotton to form a complex lattice work. To add a delightful and creative touch, the weaver incorporated knotted or pile colorful lozenges made from sheep’s wool. The otherwise rigid and regular dark and light background pattern is softened beautifully by the addition of color and the charming irregularity of these knotted areas. 

Along the border, the weaver added extra tassels. Some are worn down to their knot base, All the dyes are natural in this piece. A real tribal piece that probably was never intended to be made for the market, but to be used as a personal item.

Remarkably, this single piece combines three distinct materials: sheep’s wool, cotton, and undyed goat hair. It’s a truly lovely and intriguing piece that showcases both weaving skill and a wonderful sense of fun and creativity! 

Material: 100% hand-spun sheep wool

Size: 122×87 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.