Fragment Of A Maffrash Qashqai / Persia. Late 19th Century. 75 X 53 Cm. Rug

This panel originally belonged to a maffrash, a large fabric trunk used by nomadic peoples to transport and store blankets, rugs, bedding, and personal belongings.

Its Qashqai origin in Fars finds a particularly interesting parallel in Brian W. MacDonald’s book *Tribal Rugs – Treasures of the Black Tent*. A very similar maffrash is attributed in that book to the Qashqai of Fars Province and dated to the last quarter of the 19th century. It features the same arrangement of the design, an identical technique, and a comparable color palette.

The field is constructed through the repetition of small geometric motifs arranged diagonally. They interlock to form a particularly regular grid of diamonds. Despite the density of the design, the whole remains perfectly ordered and reveals a remarkable mastery of design.

A deep indigo blue structures the composition and interacts with the brick reds, terracotta, browns, and ochres. Small touches of ivory bring light and add depth to the whole. The natural variations in hue fully contribute to the character of this ancient nomadic production.

Finally, the upper portion still retains its camel leather reinforcement, intended to protect the edges during frequent travels. This functional detail serves as a reminder that this piece—now remarkable for its graphic qualities—was first and foremost a part of daily nomadic life.

Fragment of a Maffrash
Woven and embroidered
Wool on wool
Plant-based dyes
Circa 1880
Superb condition
DIM: 75 × 53 cm

Choosing an antique rug or textile is often a serendipitous encounter.

If one of our pieces catches your eye, or if you’d like more information or photos, I’d be happy to discuss it with you.

Laurent Consul
Beauty of Kilims
06 42 61 73 46