How were flatweave bag faces used?

Nomadic tribes utilised these bags for storing grain, bedding, clothing and household utensils inside tents or for transporting possessions across terrain on pack animals. The thick weave protected contents from moisture and dust during seasonal migrations. Over time, as families settled or goods dispersed, the decorative front panels separated from their plain weave backs to be preserved as individual textiles or converted into cushions.

How do I hang a bag face on the wall?

Mounting a textile requires methods that distribute weight evenly across the top edge without puncturing the wool or cotton foundation. A fabric sleeve stitched to the reverse or conservation-grade Velcro systems work effectively. Keep textiles away from direct sunlight and damp environments to protect the natural dyes and wool fibres from degradation over time.

How can I tell tribal groups apart?

Tribal groups indicate their origins through distinct colour palettes, structural techniques and characteristic motifs. Shahsavan weaving often displays soumak work with dragons and birds, whilst Turkmen pieces feature geometric guls in deep reds. Kurdish and Lori-Bakhtiari makers favour banded flatweaves and earthy tones. Examining the weave structure helps confirm the regional workshop.

What is the difference between a chuval and a torba?

A chuval is a large tent storage bag designed by Turkmen tribes for bulky domestic goods like bedding and clothing. These pieces measure significantly larger than other utility sacks. A torba is a smaller storage bag intended for personal items or smaller household gear. Both share flatweave or piled construction depending on the specific tribe.