Gabbeh Rugs from Iran
The Gabbeh rugs from Iran are known to be simple yet whimsical rugs with modern and often geometric designs. Translated as an unfinished rug, Gabbeh is a Persian rug originally woven by the weavers of Qashqai, Iran.
The original purpose of the Gabbeh rugs is the weaver’s own personal use as sleeping rugs. Some of the original designs are usually primitive and un-dyed with colors ranging from beige to ivory to black. These types of rugs are the natural Gabbeh rugs.
Now, the more popular Gabbehs are usually brightly colored with the weavers having all the free reign in the design. The original subtle and understated designs with muted colors are now replaced with bold and unique designs filled with colors. The designs, basically influenced by the classic Persian style, include geometric shapes and the local scenery. There are designs with herd of camels and another with central medallion coupled with plants in the background. There are also more daring pieces of rugs with no shapes but mere variegation of colors to showcase the wool quality.
To this date, the primary factor that determines the beauty of Gabbehs is the colors. Together with some innovation brought about by more contemporary forms of production, Gabbehs are now available in jewel tones as well as with more modern and refreshing designs. The old school techniques for dyeing the materials are also renewed and further developed.
Because of its simple design elements, Gabbeh rugs from Iran are best fitted for modern interiors, no matter where you are in the world. These rugs are also great for eclectic themes for a room as well as traditional Persian interior designs. This rug, however, is not a good fit for more formal rooms.
Gabbeh rugs from Iran are woven by tribal groups. These tribes have Turkic ancestry. As far as the Gabbehs are concerned, the best quality rugs are from the areas in the Zagros Mountains. This area is located at the southern part of Iran. These Gabbeh rugs are woven with hand-spun Persian wool and are usually done in the weaver’s home. This is the reason why original Gabbehs have their own unique individuality.
In the past, the Gabbeh rugs from Iran are actually regarded as something crude and not very pleasing. Thus, local merchants and dealers of yesteryear have ignored these beautiful rugs and find them of lesser value. Within the last decade, however, this had dramatically changed with the recognition of its beauty especially by the Western world and by the influence of globalization.
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