The Legacy of the Qashqai Tribes

In the rugged highlands around the historic city of Shiraz, the nomadic Qashqai people (also spelled Gashgai or Qashgai) have preserved a weaving tradition that is among the most prestigious in Persia. As the largest tribal confederation in southern Persia, the Qashqai — alongside subtribes such as the Kashkuli, Khamseh and Arab-Baff — create textiles globally recognised for their spontaneous creativity and structural integrity.

Every Qashqai rug is a testament to an ancient cultural identity. For serious collectors, these weaves are a matter of academic and artistic record. Detailed ethnographic studies and technical analyses can be explored through the Jozan Carpet Encyclopedia, a premier authority on tribal provenance. This tradition of excellence is why Qashqai pieces are foundational to world-class exhibits, such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) in London.

Geometric Design & Natural Pigments

The artistic language of tribal rugs from Shiraz is defined by bold, geometric motifs and a vibrant palette derived from nature. Key characteristics of our Qashqai collection include:

• •The madder root glow: the signature deep red tones are achieved through Rubia tinctorum (madder), a plant-based dye that creates a luminous, living colour
• •Symbolic imagery: medallions often feature stylised animals and plants, reflecting nomadic life in the Zagros mountains
• •Versatile weaves: beyond pile rugs, the tribes are famous for their Qashqai kilims — flat-woven masterpieces perfect for contemporary, bohemian or mid-century modern interiors
• •Material excellence: weaving with high-lustre wool on a wool or cotton foundation ensures extreme durability and a soft handle

Why Choose a Qashqai from the Djoharian Collection

Investing in a Shiraz Qashqai rug means acquiring a piece of tangible history. Every rug in our collection is hand-selected for its artistic merit and technical quality. As a partner of Label STEP Fair Trade Carpets, the Djoharian Collection ensures that these nomadic treasures are traded ethically, supporting the livelihoods of the weaving communities while preserving their environmental heritage.