Maffrash, Karabakh, Caucasus. Circa 1900. 116 X 56 X 47 Cm

An extraordinary Maffrash from Karabakh in the Caucasus.

Maffrashs are the largest carrying bags used by the nomadic peoples of Persia and the Caucasus. Once camp was set up, they served as baby carriages.

I said “extraordinary”—here are three reasons why.

The colors are ultra-vibrant and bright. It’s a festival of colors. Also, the presence of certain colors is completely unexpected on such items.

The technique: the one used here is flat weaving, commonly known as kilim. I’d say that less than 5% of Maffrashs are made using this technique. Most often, the Sumak technique is used, or the pieces are embroidered using a second weft thread.

The weaving. It is extremely fine and, above all, strikingly uniform.

Just looking at this aspect, one could easily mistake it for a much older piece, dating from the mid-19th century or earlier.

Of course, we could have discussed the object’s originality!

We have over a hundred Maffrash in our collection, either complete or in the form of fragments.

We are currently compiling a catalog on the subject. In the meantime, please feel free to ask us for photos.

Now, I’ll answer the following question: What can we do with such an object in our respective homes?

The idea is to build a lightweight wooden frame that is inserted inside the piece, restoring its volume.

This easily creates a beautiful coffee table or a sort of seat for two people.

Placed on its base with horizontal strips, you’ll have an open-top storage chest.

Wool on wool

Circa 1900

Perfect condition

Dimensions: 116 x 57 x 46 cm

Laurent

Beauty of Kilims