Khamseh antique tribal rug, circa 1900.

Size 195 x 140 cm (6' 5" x 4' 7")

Southwest Persia, Fars Province.

Pile Wool, Warp Wool, Weft Wool.　



Nineteenth-century Persian Khamseh carpets share much in common with nomadic Qashqai textiles and are highly prised by tribal rug collectors for their deep colours and use of complex, stylised ancient motifs and animals. The Khamse were a 19th-century South Persian tribal confederation whose carpet style and geographical origins are linked to the Qashqai and Afshar traditions. As with other nomadic textiles from the Fars region, the decoration is varied and enhanced by the use of natural dye shades and fine wool. The traditional colour palette of the Khamse is characterised by deep, neutral to dark blue and rust colours. In this rug, a white ground pattern with animals and trees is balanced by a square motif with fish and birds in the centre and a darker coloured border around it.

The rug is in good condition for being over 120 years old, with low pile in places and signs of use, but can be used as an everyday carpet.