AFSHAR
Origins: Afshar rugs come from the Afshar tribe, primarily settled in the regions of Kerman and the surrounding areas of southern Iran. These nomadic and semi-nomadic tribes have a long-standing tradition of rug weaving, known for producing smaller, rustic carpets that reflect their tribal heritage and mobile lifestyle.
Design: Afshar rugs are celebrated for their distinctive geometric patterns and bold, tribal motifs. Common designs include diamond-shaped medallions, boteh (paisley), animal figures, and stylized flowers. The patterns are often symmetrical, and the color palette tends to be rich, with deep reds, dark blues, ivory, and sometimes touches of orange or green.
Construction: Afshar rugs are typically handcrafted using high-quality wool, sometimes with cotton foundations. The wool used is often thick and durable, ideal for their semi-nomadic origins. These rugs are usually woven with a Turkish (Ghiordes) knot, contributing to their sturdy, long-lasting nature. The pile tends to be shorter, making the patterns appear crisper and more defined.
Size and Shape: Afshar rugs are usually smaller in size, as they were woven for practical use in tribal homes and tents. Common dimensions include small carpets, mats, and runners. Their compact size and straightforward rectangular or square shapes make them versatile for modern home settings.
Quality and Collectability: While Afshar rugs may not reach the high levels of intricacy seen in Isfahan rugs, they are prized for their tribal authenticity and bold, folk-inspired designs. Their distinctive patterns and solid craftsmanship make them highly collectible, particularly among enthusiasts of nomadic and tribal weavings.
Cultural Significance: Afshar rugs are an expression of the nomadic lifestyle and tribal identity of the Afshar people. Each rug tells a story of the weaver’s surroundings, culture, and daily life. The simplicity and honesty of these designs reflect their connection to the land, nature, and tribal customs, offering a more rustic yet deeply meaningful cultural representation.
Evolution: Although Afshar rugs retain much of their traditional tribal charm, some modern versions may introduce new color combinations or design variations to appeal to a wider audience. However, the essence of their tribal roots remains a dominant feature, making them timeless pieces of art.
Antique Afshar carpet that is best of type
History
The history of Afshar rugs is deeply intertwined with the Afshar tribe, a group of nomadic and semi-nomadic people originally from the regions of Azerbaijan and northwest Persia. Over time, many Afshar tribes migrated to southern Iran, particularly the Kerman province, and this region became a significant hub for their rug-making traditions.The Afshar tribe belongs to the Oghuz Turks, who began migrating to Persia (modern-day Iran) in the 11th century. Originally residing in Azerbaijan and parts of Turkey, many Afshars were relocated to the southern regions of Iran, especially around Kerman, in the 16th and 17th centuries as part of the Safavid Empire's policy of settling tribes in strategic areas.
As nomads, the Afshar people wove rugs primarily for utilitarian purposes—such as floor coverings for tents and homes. The natural surroundings and their semi-nomadic lifestyle had a profound influence on the rugs they produced, giving birth to a distinctive style that reflects their tribal identity.
A private commissioned Mehrab afshar that is best of type
The tradition of rug weaving within the Afshar tribe likely began centuries ago, possibly dating back to their origins in the Caucasus. Once settled in the Kerman region, the Afshars adapted their weaving techniques, incorporating local influences and materials while retaining their characteristic tribal designs.
Unlike the more intricate and courtly rugs of cities like Isfahan or Tabriz, Afshar rugs are rooted in a tribal aesthetic. Their designs are bold and geometric, with motifs often inspired by nature, animals, and symbols of nomadic life. Early Afshar rugs would have been smaller and less complex, woven on simple looms set up in tents or on the move.
A stellar designed afshar portraying an important meeting
Over time, the Afshar people began refining their rug-making skills, and by the 19th century, Afshar rugs had gained recognition for their distinct style. Some of the common characteristics of Afshar rugs include:
Geometric Patterns: Traditional Afshar designs focus on geometric shapes, such as diamond medallions and hexagons. These are often arranged in repetitive, symmetrical layouts.
Boteh Motif: The boteh, an ancient design resembling a paisley or a flame, is frequently found in Afshar rugs. It represents growth, fertility, or eternity.
Natural Dyes and Rich Colors: The Afshars used natural dyes derived from plants, minerals, and insects. Deep reds, indigo blues, ivory, and earthy tones dominate their rugs, creating a vibrant, yet harmonious color palette.
Practicality and Durability: Afshar rugs were made to withstand the tough conditions of nomadic life. The wool used in their production is often thicker and more durable, making these rugs resilient and long-lasting.
Being in southern Iran, the Afshar weavers came into contact with other Persian weaving traditions, which influenced the evolution of their designs. The proximity to Kerman, a region famous for its Persian carpets, allowed the Afshars to incorporate finer materials and more complex designs while still maintaining their distinctive tribal motifs.
While Afshar rugs are generally smaller than the city carpets of Iran, they are known for their use of vibrant colors and strong, bold patterns. They also adopted the use of cotton for the rug foundation (warp and weft), which was a shift from the all-wool construction seen in earlier tribal pieces.
A Gorgeous isfahan carpet drawn by emami and woven in the shureshi workshop
A beautiful tree of life afshar that displays excellent color harmony
In the 20th century, Afshar rugs gained more international recognition as collectors and scholars began to appreciate the unique qualities of tribal and nomadic weavings. As the nomadic lifestyle declined due to modernization, many Afshar weavers settled in villages and towns, which affected their rug-making traditions.
The transition from a fully nomadic to a more sedentary way of life led to some changes in the production of Afshar rugs. Village-made Afshar rugs tend to be larger and sometimes feature more sophisticated patterns compared to their earlier counterparts. However, the essence of the tribal style remains intact in many modern examples.
Afshar rugs hold a special place in the world of Persian rugs due to their authenticity and direct link to Iran’s tribal heritage. Unlike the more urban, finely woven rugs from Persian cities, Afshar rugs represent the artistry of a people connected to the land and to nature. The designs are not just decorative; they often hold symbolic meanings related to protection, fertility, and the nomadic way of life.
Designed by archang and produced by haj agha Reza seirafian
Today, Afshar rugs continue to be woven, and while some modern rugs incorporate new color palettes and adaptations for contemporary tastes, they remain deeply rooted in the tribe's historical weaving traditions. These rugs are highly valued by collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate their boldness, authenticity, and cultural significance.
The history of Afshar rugs is a reflection of the Afshar tribe’s journey, from their nomadic beginnings in the Caucasus to their settlement in southern Iran. Their rugs have preserved a deep connection to the tribe’s heritage, combining practicality with artistry. As symbols of the Afshar tribe’s identity, these rugs continue to be woven with the same tribal passion and attention to detail, ensuring that their legacy endures in the world of Persian carpets.