Persian Rugs
In this time of fast-paced lifestyle, we are almost forgetting the comforts of our own homes. This post is about Persian rugs, a new solution to make your own space more relaxing. This Persian rug is called the Gabbeh, an original rug from the Qashqai tribe of Iran.
The Gabbeh rug is originally made by the nomad tribe Qashqai as locals of southwestern Iran. Because they move around as nomad tribes to provide their animals with food, they need to make long piles to sleep on while they are traveling. They use the wool from their sheep and use dye from plants and herbs. Aside from being a functional rug that provides comfort during the cold nights, these Persian rugs are also works of art.
Gabbeh actually means rough, unchanged, and natural. And this is what these Persian rugs are. Conceived as a form of naive art, the Gabbehs are very simple in patterns and designs and can be even considered as somewhat primitive. The influences of the Qashqai nomads are the things they see in their surroundings. The inspirations for their rugs are animals, humans, simple geometric patterns, and abstract patterns.
These Persian rugs are famous for the bold use of colors. Prominent colors of yellow, red, orange to cool hues of blue and green from these Gabbehs will instantaneously enliven any living room.
The nomadic people of Qashqai make use of ergonomic horizontal looms that are suited to their way of life. Because they are always moving, they developed hard and thick rugs, with an inch thickness, yet remain soft to the touch.
Persian Gabbeh rugs are dyed using only natural dyes for the colors. The tribes make use of ancient recipes, using local ingredients like plant roots and herbs. The common raw materials include pomegranate skin, walnut husks, indigo, and madder roots.
As you may notice, the original Gabbeh rugs may seem unevenly colored. These home-made dyes adhere unevenly to the wool yarns, producing a rustic appeal to the overall look of the Gabbeh. Interestingly, this is one of its unique features and a true representation of the Persian cultural legacy.
Even with its quite simple way of weaving, the Persian Gabbeh rugs are durable. You just have to take note how to property take care of it. It is suggested to put an underlay between the Persian rug and the floor to avoid erosion. You also need to rotate the rug to avoid the accumulation of dirt. This will also protect the dye from overexposure to sunlight especially when it is situated near the window.
Enjoy your Persian rug Gabbeh. It is original, pure, and a true work of art.
Tags:Persian Rugs