What is an antique woven vanity pouch?

An antique woven vanity pouch is a small, portable storage bag made by nomadic and tribal groups in Persia during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. These pieces were utilised for personal storage and transport within tribal camps, reflecting the practical domestic needs of their makers.

Who made these tribal bags?

These bags were produced by various nomadic confederacies and tribes across Persia, including the Qashqa'i, Shahsevan, Afshar, and Baluch peoples. Each group employed distinct weaving traditions, colour combinations, and geometric motifs characteristic of their specific region.

What materials were used?

Weavers relied primarily on hand-spun wool and cotton foundations, dyed using traditional natural substances sourced from their local environments. Some examples also incorporate cowrie shells as surface ornamentation to enhance the visual appeal of the textile.

How do I care for a vanity pouch?

These fragile textiles require gentle handling, protection from direct sunlight, and minimal exposure to moisture to preserve the natural fibres. Regular light dusting and avoiding heavy weight placement will help maintain the structural integrity of the weave.