c1940s ANTIQUE TRIBAL PERSIAN SIRJAN SHIRAZ RUG 5.3x7.1

The village of Sirjan is located in the province of Fars, in southern Iran. Patterns are very geometric, usually consisting of a line of simple diamond shaped medallions, repeated vertically in the center of the carpet. Along with the geometric motifs, small animals or plants are frequently seen in parts of these rugs. The tribes producing carpets around Sirjan are mostly of Afshari descent. Color schemes include, reds, burgundy, navy blue, and beige.
From the great southern province of Fars, through parts of the province of Kerman, nomadic tribes have a long history of rug weaving. Afshar, Qashqai, Gabbeh and other tribal rugs are produced in the southern part of this vast area. The Afshar tribes are mostly in the province of Kerman, while the renowned Qashqai tribes are spread across both provinces and other parts of southern Iran. Some major rug-weaving centers include the historic city of Shiraz, in Fars; the famous city of Kerman; and the towns of Abadeh, Sirjan, and many other villages and nomadic groupings. Strong Turkish and Kurdish weaving influences and techniques are visible, especially in the use of the symmetrical Turkish knot, woven up to a density of 100 knots per sq. in. The foundation is strong, durable cotton, or in more naive cases, wool or goat hair. The pile is of very lustrous, fine wool that has been shorn from local herds, and colored mainly with natural vegetable and root dyes. These simple, gentle weavers are naturally fond of bright, lively colors for their primitive homes. They produce native rugs that are unique treasures and may take many months to complete.