Antique Shahsevan Bagface

Period: Mid 19th Century
Origin: Shahsevan
Dimensions: 60 x 62 cm

This rare mid 19th century Shahsevan bagface highlights a powerful and rhythmic geometric composition featuring a vertical sequence of three monumental, ivory-ground medallions rendered with vibrant primary tones. This structural balance between the luminous cerulean blue field and the bold, angular motifs—accented with madder red, golden ochre, and forest green—reflects the pinnacle of the Northwest Persian or Caucasian tribal weaving tradition. Such pieces were originally crafted as highly durable functional art for nomadic life, serving as the face of a khurjin (saddlebag) or mafrash (bedding bag).

The color palette is masterfully balanced featuring a primary indigo-blue ground that serves as a dramatic canvas for high contrast shifts of madder red, ivory, and soft walnut brown. These rich and enduring tones achieved through the expert application of natural dyes exhibit a chromatic strength and a characteristic “velvety” luster that are hallmarks of the finest late 19th century Shahsevan productions. The inclusion of a wide red primary border decorated with a rhythmic sequence of colorful “running dog” or serrated motifs creates a precise visual frame that highlights the superior wool quality and distinctive technical finesse of the tribal weavers.

Structural analysis indicates the use of robust hand-spun local wool with a characteristically plush pile and a resilient handle. The exceptional clarity of the geometric outlines—including the presence of stylized zoomorphic “bird” figures and star rosettes—and the presence of significant, harmonious abrash within the blue field definitively distinguish this antique masterpiece from later commercial examples. Ultimately this Shahsevan bagface stands as a premier example of tribal geometric art representing a peak in both technical endurance and graphic majesty for global textile collectors.

In this rare sumakh bag face by the Moghan Shahsevan, the green field contains a white octagon enclosing eight stars that is decorated with twelve red, outer double hooks. Four animals stand in the corners of the field. The white border presents large cruciform motifs represented either as complete forms or as halved forms offset against them. Very finely woven, outstanding colours. Herrmann has published a double bag of identical design from the Tanavoli Collection. Wertime attributes two bag faces of the same design to the Kazak region. Good condition, minimally reduced at both ends.

Stock No : 2337

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