Description

Antique Persian shiraz/ Qashqai rugs (sometimes spelled Ghashghai, Kashgai, or other variations) are beautiful and intricate, Tribal pile rugs. They get their name from Persian nomadic tribes that have lived in what is now southwest Iran for centuries. The Qashqai people lived in central Asia and the Caucasus region for many centuries before moving to their current home region. Because of this diverse history, influences from many regions are apparent in their carpets. Discerning viewers may recognize similarities to the artistic styles of the Turkmen people, Caucasians, and other tribes that live near them today.

Antique Qashqai rugs will typically feature dark reds, saffron golds, and rich blues. These jewel tone rug colors were available to the ancient tribes with vegetable-based dyes, and today they are still often incorporated into the design despite the availability of a wider range of dyes. This is both a tribute to their past and a sign that Qashqai weavers refuse to sacrifice quality for easy-to-use synthetic dyes. Traditionally, the Qashqai tribes wove the designs into the antique rugs from memory, without the help of a pattern to copy.

Many Persian Qashqai rugs also used to feature multiple borders, since this allows the weaver to incorporate even more colors and designs. Some of these Persian rugs feature tassels or fringes along the short ends, though this is not a requirement.

Designs in the fields of these rugs feature many different images. Medallions, geometric shapes, and abstract patterns are common.