Gabbeh rugs embody the raw beauty of Persian nomadic life, created by Qashqai, Luri, and Kurdish tribes in Iran's Zagros Mountains. These hand-knotted carpets feature luxuriously thick pile, vibrant natural colors, and simple yet expressive designs that reflect the spontaneous artistry and pastoral lifestyle of their creators.
The word "Gabbeh" means something that is coarse, natural, or uncut in Persian. Woven for centuries, Gabbeh is tribal rugs favored among the Kurdish, Luri, and Qashqai people in the Zagros Mountains in Iran. These rugs are a byproduct of a pastoral lifestyle, produced using wool from their sheep herd and dyes from native plants.
Gabbeh rugs are hand-woven and coarse; often referred to as "sleeping rugs," they are most notably known for their thick, rough and raw characteristics. Gabbeh rug has long piles, low knot density, and many rows of weft between each row of knots. The 19th century gabbeh rugs were very coarsely knotted (40kpi or less) with long (sometimes shaggy) pile, making them soft underfoot and perfect for floor seating.
Persian Gabbeh rugs are known for their unique patterns. They stand out with their abstract and geometric designs. These patterns show the weaver's creativity and their bond with nature. Unlike other Persian rugs, Gabbeh rugs have a more free and organic look. Gabbeh rugs have basic designs made up of symbolic or geometric shapes and motifs. The simplicity of the designs and patterns is offset by bright colors such as reds, oranges, rusts, and yellow.
These dyes are extracted from natural vegetation found in nearby surroundings, creating rich, earthy palettes that reflect the weavers' environment. It combines thick, heavy pile with bold colors and shapes in unusual and exciting combinations. The use of natural materials and dyes gives each rug its distinctive character and ensures that no two pieces are exactly alike.
The Persian Gabbeh rug: known for it's deliciously thick pile that your feet sink into and unique in that it is pretty much the only authentic Persian rug that is very simple and plain in design. Unlike the intricate patterns of traditional Persian carpets, Gabbeh rugs embrace minimalism and spontaneous expression, making them perfect for modern interiors that appreciate understated elegance.
Gabbeh rugs are often referred to as "sleeping rugs," they are most notably known for their thick, rough and raw characteristics. This nickname comes from their original use as bedding by nomadic tribes. The thick, cushioned pile provided comfort for sleeping on hard ground during migrations, and this same quality makes them luxuriously comfortable for modern homes.
The weavers are often seen spinning the long-fibered wool by hand while the men tend to their livestock. These rugs were initially created by artisans for their own use as floor coverings, bedding, bags, and other practical purposes. They were woven relatively quickly without the need for large looms, making them perfect for the nomadic lifestyle.
As a result, the Gabbeh style branched off into different subtypes, including Kashkoli and Zollanvari. Gabbehs labeled Loribaft have a finer pile and a higher knot density than regular Gabbeh rugs. These variations offer different levels of refinement while maintaining the essential Gabbeh characteristics of thick pile and natural beauty.
Yes, Gabbeh rugs are remarkably durable due to their nomadic origins and construction. Each rug is hand-made and unique, attempting to duplicate one would be next to impossible, and their thick wool pile can withstand regular use. The natural oils in the wool and the sturdy construction make them ideal for living areas, though their luxurious feel also makes them perfect for bedrooms and cozy spaces where comfort is paramount.
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At Jewel Rugs, we specialize in curating a stunning collection of vintage and antique Persian and Oriental rugs. Each piece is hand-selected for its unique beauty and quality.
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