Khorjin / Bag Front. Kurdish Jaff. Circa 1900. 75 X 56 Cm

The depth of the indigo hues, the richness of its color palette, and the density of its design make it a true miniature textile painting.

And it’s hard, in fact, not to start with the colors. They are numerous, deep, sometimes unexpected, yet remarkably complementary. Indigo blue dominates and gives structure to the whole piece, ranging from an almost black midnight blue to shades of petrol blue and teal. These are complemented by reds: weathered madder red, brick red, terracotta, coral, and dusty pink, accompanied by browns, ochre, and a few flashes of ivory.

The central field is organized around a diagonal grid of large diamonds, characteristic of Kurdish Jaff textiles. But behind this apparent regularity, each section differs slightly: patterns, colors, and proportions vary subtly. It is precisely this imperfect repetition that gives the composition its rhythm and its deeply tribal character.

In the center, a small ivory diamond stands out against the deep blues. A true point of light, it immediately catches the eye. Around it, geometric shapes, hooks, and small stylized motifs follow one another.

The wide outer border offers a particularly striking contrast: against a superb indigo background unfolds a succession of polychrome rosettes in red, pink, brown, and ivory. This floral motif softens the powerful geometry of the central field.

This piece was originally the knotted side of a khorjin, a double-sided bag used by nomadic peoples to carry their personal belongings. Once a utilitarian object and now a collector’s item, it retains all the spontaneity and decorative power of Kurdish tribal weaving.

Kurdish Jaff – Western Persia
Wool on wool – knotted velvet
Plant-based dyes
Circa 1900
Dimensions: 75 x 56 cm

Laurent
Beauty of Kilims