Gabbeh Rugs are Part of a Rich Persian Tradition
The traditional Gabbeh Persian carpet – known as gava in Kurdish and Luri and called khersak in Bakhtiari – is a simple, hand-woven pile rug traditionally made by the nomadic Qashqai tribes who dwelled in the Zagros Mountains of southern Iran, near the city of Shiraz. Other tribes, such as the Lurs, the Kurds and the Bahktiari also weave these carpets.
In Persian, the word “Gabbeh” means “fringe” or “in the rough.” Gabbeh rugs are rough cut and long piled rugs of rich color and the best quality wool. Most Gabbeh carpets are medium size – up to 3’ x 5’ – and feature abstract designs where shapes and color dance playfully with one another.
Variations of the gabbeh rug – such as the “Loribaft”, “Amaleh”, “Kashkuli” – may reflect the heritage of the tribe by which they are woven or the name of the city in which they are most often traded, such as “a Shiraz Gabbeh.”
The 19th century gabbeh rugs were very coarsely knotted (40kpi or less), often with shaggy pile. The name of Gholam Reza Zollanvari is synonymous with modern Gabbeh rugs. Zollanvari learned the rug business from his grandfather, a merchant in the Shirazi rug bazaar. Zollanvari pioneered the construction of fine-weave gabbehs with knot counts of 200+ kpi. Today, Zollanvari rugs are among the most popular styles of Persian rugs.
The Making of a Gabbeh Rugs: A Craft Shared Across Generations
Most Gabbeh carpets are made by women, and many are one-of-a-kind works of art. Some patterns are passed down thru the generations as mothers and grandmothers teach their daughters the art of Persian rug making. Many patterns reflect the weaver’s observations of the environments through which the tribe has passed. Some rugs are even made by the hands of many weavers.
Traditional Gabbeh rugs were woven on makeshift ground looms. These looms are built with materials are carried long distances by the nomadic tribes, or materials found where the tribe settled. Since each loom is unique, each rug is unique; this is how Gabbeh rugs get their distinctive irregular in shape.
Woven with the Wool of Mountain Sheep
Gabbeh rugs are woven from high quality wool from the tribe’s own sheep. As the tribe herds its sheep over hundreds of miles, the nomads reach high altitudes. In the summers, they stay in the highland pastures north of Shiraz in the Zargos Mountains; by winter they sojourn to pasture lands near the Persian Gulf. Sheep grazed in high altitudes produce more lanolin, giving their wool a luxurious softness and resistance to stain.
Rich, Colorful Dyes Give Gabbeh Carpets a Remarkable Color
The Qashqai people find the dyes used in Gabbeh carpets or purchase them in towns where they trade their finished carpets. Often, they use all-natural vegetable dyes to give the wool vibrant color while retaining its lanolin.
Hand-Knotted Rugs with Turkish Symmetrical Knots and Persian Asymmetrical Knots
Most of the wool used in the construction of Gabbeh rugs is handspun using a drop spindle. After the wool has been dyed and handspun, the weaver uses the loom to hand-knot the rug using Turkish symmetrical knots or Persian asymmetrical knots, or even a combination of the two. Because the all the Qashqai tribes use both types of knots, it is difficult to tell from which individual tribe any one rug has come from.
Gabbeh Rugs Are Small – Often Just 3’ x 5’ in Size
A typical size for a Gabbeh carpet is 3 feet by 5 feet. It can take 18 to 25 hours to weave even a small Gabbeh rug. Tribal Gabbeh rugs usually have lower knot counts compared to other types of Persian carpet. This low knot count and the high quality of wool makes Gabbeh rugs famous for their exceptional durability.
Durable Floor Coverings, Wraps and Bedding to Protect from the Mountain Cold
Gabbeh rugs are often floppy because they have wider rows of multiple wefts. This made the soft, pliable rugs ideal as wraps or bedding to insulate against the bitter cold of the mountains.
Gabbeh rugs are often not symmetrical due to the nomadic lifestyle of their creators, and color variations within a rug are common. Often, the variation in color in a rug tells a story of the tribe’s migration, the climates and environments it encountered, and the tribe members who contributed to its creation.
Where to Buy Gabbeh Rugs
Unless you plan to travel to Iran to shop for Gabbeh rugs in the marketplace, we’d suggest buying a Gabbeh rug online from RugSource.com or visiting our showroom. We’re proud to bring these highly coveted rugs to you – please contact us if you’d like to know more.
Kilim Rugs: Adding Timeless Elegance and Cultural Richness to Your Space
Kilim rugs are a remarkable fusion of art, history, and craftsmanship that can effortlessly transform any space into a visually stunning and culturally rich environment. These exquisite tapestry-woven carpets have transcended their origins in the Middle East and Central Asia to become beloved and sought-after pieces worldwide. From their intriguing history to the intricate motifs that tell stories of tradition and heritage, kilim rugs are more than just floor coverings; they are works of art that deserve a place of honor in your home.
At Rug Source, we work hard to ensure that our customers are informed about what options they have and the best ways to incorporate beautiful rugs into their homes. On this page, we will delve into the rich beauty, history, and aesthetic versatility inherent in Kilim rugs.
The Fascinating Origins and Making of Kilim Rugs
The term "kilim" finds its roots in the Turkish word "kelime," meaning "to weave." This aptly describes the intricate weaving technique used in crafting these rugs. Kilim rugs are characterized by their flat-woven structure, where yarns are interlaced to create vibrant and intricate designs. This ancient technique has been passed down through generations, resulting in a captivating blend of history and artistry.
While kilim rugs have Turkish origins, their influence has spread far beyond. From North Africa to Iran, Central Asia to China, various cultures have adopted and adapted the kilim weaving technique to create rugs that reflect their unique aesthetics and traditions. The use of different materials such as wool, cotton, silk, and even animal hair, along with decorative elements like gold and silver threads, beads, and baubles, has further enriched the diversity of kilim rugs.
A Journey Through Kilim Motifs
One of the most enchanting aspects of kilim rugs is the symbolism embedded within their intricate motifs. These motifs go beyond their visual appeal, often conveying cultural narratives, legends, and beliefs. The patterns and designs are a window into the lives and histories of the people who wove them. From geometric shapes representing fertility and protection to intricate floral patterns embodying nature's beauty, each motif tells a unique story that resonates across time and borders.
Choosing the Perfect Kilim Rug for Your Space
Selecting the right kilim rug for your space requires careful consideration of your home's style, existing furnishings, and the rug's size. Traditional designs, featuring intricate geometric or floral patterns, can seamlessly complement classic decor. Meanwhile, modern spaces can benefit from contemporary kilim rugs with abstract designs and bolder color choices.
When it comes to size, striking the perfect balance is essential. A rug that is too small can get lost in the room, while one that is too large might overwhelm the space. Consider the dimensions of the room, the arrangement of furniture, and the intended focal points when determining the ideal rug size.
Caring for Your Kilim Rug
Owning a kilim rug is a commitment to preserving its beauty and longevity. Regular maintenance is key to keeping these exquisite pieces in pristine condition. Vacuuming with care, using low power settings, and employing rug pads can protect your kilim from wear and tear. In the event of spills or stains, quick action with mild soap and cool water can prevent lasting damage. For areas with heavy foot traffic, consider professional cleaning services to ensure the rug's vibrancy remains intact.
Incorporating Kilim Rugs into Your Home Decor
Whether you're drawn to the vintage charm of antique kilim designs or the vibrant allure of modern patterns, kilim rugs can seamlessly integrate into various design schemes. From adding warmth to minimalist interiors to infusing character into eclectic spaces, these rugs have a versatile appeal. Layer them over hardwood floors for a cozy touch or showcase them as captivating wall hangings that serve as conversation starters.
Kilim Rugs: A Tapestry of Tradition and Modern Elegance
In the world of interior design, kilim rugs stand as timeless treasures that embody history, culture, and artistic expression. With their unique patterns, vibrant colors, and rich symbolism, these rugs have an unparalleled ability to infuse any space with character, charm, and depth. Whether you're seeking to embrace tradition or elevate your decor with a touch of the exotic, a kilim rug is a piece of art that can truly transform your living environment. Explore the diverse world of kilim rugs and embark on a journey of discovery that enriches both your space and your understanding of the world's cultural tapestry.
About Rug Source
At Rug Source, we’re here to help you discover the perfect Kilim rug for your home. Our freshly curated inventory showcases a mesmerizing array of handmade rugs, each a testament to meticulous craftsmanship. Whether your preference leans towards understated neutral tones or bold jewel tones, our collection caters to diverse tastes and styles.
Our Proud History
Established in 2010 by rug industry veteran Mina Shams, Rug Source has evolved into a prominent name in the field. Over the past thirteen years, our commitment to beautiful rugs has grown stronger, and we're thrilled to share our passion with you during this reopening event.
Our Enduring Mission
At Rug Source, we believe that rugs transcend mere floor coverings; they are woven representations of cultural heritage. Our mission is to celebrate the artistry of handmade rugs and the narratives they hold. We aspire to make these extraordinary creations accessible to all, which is why our collection spans various styles and price ranges.
Our Dedication to You
Our passion for rugs and unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction drive us to continually exceed expectations. Committed to delivering the utmost quality, we continuously introduce the latest designs to the market, ensuring that your living spaces are graced with exquisite creations. Our team of experts vigilantly tracks emerging trends, guaranteeing that our collection remains fresh and captivating.
Experience the fusion of art, culture, and skill at Rug Source. Contact us, visit our showroom, explore our extensive collection, and uncover the rug that mirrors the beauty of your world.