Antique Afshar Bag

Period: Late 19th Century
Origin: Iran
Dimensions: 114 x 69 cm

This rare, late 19th century Afshar bag face is an exceptional and highly collectable example of nomadic textile art, showcasing the celebrated weaving prowess of the Afshar tribes of southern Persia. Originally crafted as part of a double saddlebag or utilitarian storage sack, this hand knotted wool piece is characterized by its remarkable structural density, glossy hand spun wool, and deeply saturated natural dyes. The design features a bold, dramatic midnight blue field that acts as a powerful canvas for a sophisticated geometric layout, dominated by twin stepped hexagonal medallions flanked by jagged, serrated ivory branches that evoke ancestral tribal protection symbols.

The composition is brilliantly balanced by a separate upper panel or bridge design, which mirrors the intense graphic quality of the primary field with its own sequence of smaller geometric abstractions, a feature highly prized by collectors of nomadic dowry weaves. Every element within the dark indigo ground is meticulously detailed with rich madder red, deep ochre gold, and vibrant turquoise accents, demonstrating the weaver’s masterly control over organic vegetable dye recipes. Enclosing the main field is a crisp ivory border adorned with a continuous stylized geometric vine and blossom pattern, beautifully framed by delicate polychrome guard stripes that enhance the stark, energetic contrasts of the entire textile.

Exhibiting a wonderfully authentic patina, beautiful natural abrash color variations, and a robust pile condition that highlights the exceptional quality of the tribal wool, this historic nomadic weaving possesses a striking modern graphic appeal. The natural aging process over more than a century has mellowed the bold reds and deep blues into a rich, harmonious palette without losing any of the composition’s original intensity. It stands as a brilliant and highly tactile work of utilitarian art that carries an immense historical soul, making it an excellent acquisition for tribal textile enthusiasts and a compelling, creative accent piece for curated walls or floors.

Stock No: 6522

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