Namakdan (salt Bag). Qashqai. Persia. Mid-20th Century. 53 X 38 Cm

Namakdan (salt bag) from Qashqai, Iran, first half of the 20th century. Woven from wool, it features a design of polychrome diamonds containing protective geometric motifs, framed by a herringbone border. This composition, characteristic of nomadic weavings from Fars, combines a palette of madder reds, indigo blues, and ivories, traditionally obtained from natural dyes.
Salt pouches belong to this broad family of everyday objects produced by the nomadic peoples of Persia. Salt was of paramount importance to nomadic life. Among other uses, it served to fix dyes in wool fibers, as food for people and animals, for food preservation, and for baking bread. It was once considered sacred, and the Namakdan, with their spout-like shape, were dedicated to it.

Mid-20th century
Perfect condition
Dimensions: 53 x 38 cm

Laurent
Beauty of Kilims