Khamseh rug

The Khamseh are a confederation of five largely disparate tribes of the Fars region. They were allied through the intervention of the central Persian government in the 19th century in order to check the power of the local Qashqai. This Khamseh rug draws a colorful allover field design of repeat stylized rosettes and foliage. This design is most typically seen in the weaving of the Basiri, the sole Persian speaking tribe within the Khamseh confederation, and curiously among the Afshar of southeastern Iran as well. It seems to be a tribal retelling of the more formal Persian ‘herati’ pattern. A full spectrum of colors make up various elements of design. These tones are amplified against a deep indigo ground. A classic Khamseh gold ground border with stylized roses frames the piece. Collection of Mr. and Mrs. John Corwin