Quran Case / Khorjin. Bathiyari. Persia. Circa 1880. 70 X 50 Cm

Here is a piece whose form still perfectly reflects its function. A rare object.

It is the front panel of a Bakhtiari khorjin, originating from southwestern Persia. Its unusual shape is particularly interesting: the large rectangular panel formed the front of the bag, while the triangular upper section served as its closing flap. Now separated from its original assembly, the piece retains the entire structure of this ancient nomadic object.
Entirely crafted using the Soumak technique—wool-on-wool—it features a dense, precise, and particularly graphic weave. The composition is organized around a central cartouche on a midnight blue background, which is itself set within a vast madder-red field. All around it unfolds a multitude of geometric motifs: stars, cross-like shapes, hooks, and small stylized elements. The triangular flap, meanwhile, features an almost independent composition: a large axial motif, branching out and perfectly adapted to the triangular shape, fills the entire space. The overall design evokes the vocabulary of protective and talismanic symbols so prevalent in the textiles of the nomadic peoples of Persia.

The color palette is superb and typical of ancient plant-based dyes. Deep, subtly nuanced madder red dominates the lower section. It interacts with a very dark indigo blue—almost midnight blue—along with garnet and brick reds, natural ivory, ochre and saffron yellows, a few browns, and subtle blue-green accents. Ivory plays an essential role here: used to highlight certain motifs, it adds contrast and depth to the entire composition.

What ultimately captivates about this piece is as much its beauty as its authenticity. Its shape, directly derived from its intended use, lends it a surprising graphic modernity today. Both a testament to nomadic life and a particularly decorative textile object, this khorjin panel possesses a genuine presence.

Persia, Bakhtiari.
Late 19th century.
Soumak technique, wool on wool.
Plant-based dyes.
Dimensions: 70 x 50 cm

Laurent
Beauty of Kilims