Persian rugs are often used to give homes a warm, rich look. One type of Persian rug – the Gabbeh – is gaining admirers. Gabbeh rugs are the world’s best-known coarsely-woven Iranian rugs.

Once considered “unrefined” by rugs dealers and merchants, interest in them has grown during the last 10-15 years as they become recognized for their beauty and charm.

The History of Gabbeh Rugs

Gabbeh means “unfinished” or “unclipped” in Farsi, the language of Persia, Iran’s former name. While similar to a classic Persian rug, Gabbeh has a thicker, longer pile and is not as tightly knotted. Designed to tell a story, depict a scene or convey an emotion, geometric designs and symbols ensure each rug is unique in shape and style.

These tribal rugs have been woven for centuries on horizontal looms by the nomadic people of southern Iran. Women are traditionally the expert weavers of nomadic carpets. The rugs they create show each woman’s individual spirit and natural artisanship as she translates her life experiences into the designs of each Gabbeh she weaves.

True nomadic rugs, such as the Gabbeh, are almost exclusively knotted for personal use. Gabbeh are so thick they can even be used for sleeping. Gabbeh rugs are made of wool, usually the wool that is raised in the local area.

Types of Gabbeh Rugs

There are numerous types of Gabbeh designs: Basic Gabbeh, Amalehbaft Gabbeh, Kashkoli Gabbeh, Luribaft Gabbeh, Baluch Sumac and Gabbeh Sumac. Distinctions of each style vary with knots per inch, coarseness of pile, tightness of weave and sophistication of design.

Expense of Gabbeh Rugs

True Gabbeh rugs are incredibly expensive. Small rugs measuring 4’4” x 5’0 can be found in the $500-800 range. Larger rugs can sell for $36,000-60,000 each. However, some consider Gabbeh rugs an investment because they are expected to last a lifetime when properly cared for.

Natural wool is one of the most durable materials available and is stain-resistant. Rugs should be vacuumed regularly and rotated at least once per year to ensure even wear. Professionally clean your Gabbeh rug every one to three years to rid the rug of fine grit that tends to collect in the foundation, or bottom segment of the rug. Padding placed beneath the rug can keep it from sliding and improve its overall look.

Buyer Beware

Beware of Gabbeh imposter rugs that often come from countries such as Turkey, India, China and Egypt. They are not always handmade, are made from inferior wool and have chemical –not natural — dyes. White fringe around the rug may also indicate it has a cotton foundation, which true Gabbeh rugs do not have.

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