Afshar
Afshar rugs are knotted by semi-nomadic tribes in southeastern Iran, blending nomadic motifs with refined craftsmanship.
- Region
- Persia / Iran
- Category
- Persian rugs
- Manufacturing
- Hand-knotted
- Knot density
- 80,000 – 180,000 knots/m²
Profile
- Manufacturing
- Hand-knotted
- Origin
- Iran — Kerman region, Afshar tribes
- Pile material
- Wool on cotton or wool
- Knot density
- 80,000 – 180,000 knots/m²
- Features
- Nomadic motifs, fine craftsmanship, bold red tones
Photo: Morgenland Rugs
Origin
Afshar rugs come from the areas south and east of Kerman in Persia. The Afshar are a Turkic-speaking nomadic tribe that originally came from Azerbaijan and was resettled to southern and eastern Persia by the Safavids in the 16th century. The Afshar tribes today live mainly in Kerman Province and in parts of the provinces of Fars and Khorasan. The most important centres of Afshar rug production are the areas around Kerman, Sirjan, Rafsanjan, and Baft.
Characteristics
Afshar rugs are distinguished by their characteristic geometric patterns and bold colours. Typical patterns include the Harshang motif (a stylised crab design), botehBotehTropfen- oder mandelförmiges Motiv mit gebogener Spitze — in Europa als Paisley bekannt. Stammt ursprünglich aus persischer Tradition.Read in glossary → patterns, HeratiHeratiKlassisches Muster aus einem Rautenrahmen mit zentraler Rosette und vier gebogenen Blättern (Fisch-Motiv). Sehr verbreitet in persischen Dorfteppichen.Read in glossary → borders, and various medallion forms. The traditional palette runs to warm reds, dark blue, brown, and ivory, although newer pieces may show other shades. Formats range from small prayer and saddle rugs to larger room rugs. A characteristic feature is the often irregular, slightly trapezoidal shape — a result of the nomadic production tradition.
Material and technique
The rugs are traditionally knotted from sheep's wool, with both warp and weft usually wool. Cotton threads are rarely used for the warp. Knot density typically lies between 80,000 and 200,000 knots per square metre, with finer pieces reaching higher values. The Turkish (Ghiordes) knot is used. The pile is medium-long and robust, which makes the rugs very hard-wearing. Dyeing was traditionally done with natural colours; today synthetic dyes are also used.
Worth knowing
Afshar rugs reflect the nomadic tradition of their makers, even though many Afshar tribes have become settled today. Antique Afshar pieces from the 19th and early 20th centuries are particularly valued. A subtype is the Afshar Sirjan rug, knotted in the Sirjan area and often showing finer qualities. Afshar weavers are also known for their kelims and other textiles. Thanks to their robust construction and attractive patterns, Afshar rugs enjoy a good reputation with both collectors and lovers of authentic nomadic rugs.
Frequently asked questions
How do I recognise an authentic Afshar rug?
Authentic Afshar rugs show characteristic geometric patterns, robust wool quality, and often a slightly irregular shape. The back shows the typical knot pattern of the Turkish knot, and the colour scheme is mostly warm and earthy.
Are Afshar rugs a stable store of value?
Quality Afshar rugs — especially older and antique pieces — are considered a stable store of value. Their popularity with collectors and the limited supply of authentic nomadic rugs support this trend.
How do I care for an Afshar rug properly?
Thanks to their robust wool quality, Afshar rugs are relatively easy to care for. Regular vacuuming and occasional professional cleaning are usually enough. For stains, act quickly and seek professional help.
Do Afshar rugs suit modern interiors?
The geometric patterns and warm colours of Afshar rugs harmonise well with modern interior styles and lend rooms an authentic, cosy atmosphere.
Impressions of the origin
Places, landscapes and landmarks around the home of Afshar rugs. Click any image for a larger view.
