A bag face is the decorated front panel of a nomadic storage container or saddle-bag. These textile pieces were separated from their plain wool or cotton backs over decades of use. Collectors frame them or use them as small decorative mats to display the tribal patterns clearly.

How were these bags used?

Nomadic tribes utilised these bags for storing household goods, bedding, and personal possessions inside tents. Saddle-bag pairs were also draped over pack animals during seasonal migrations. Their robust construction protected grain and belongings from moisture and rough handling.

How do I identify tribal origins?

Tribal attribution relies on specific structural formats, colour palettes, and repeating geometric motifs unique to each region. Turkmen groups favoured deep reds and octagonal guls, while Persian confederations utilised varied medallions. Comparing the border arrangements and secondary filler ornaments helps narrow down the specific weaving group.

Are natural dyes used on these pieces?

The nineteenth-century examples on this page were produced using natural dye sources derived from plants and insects. These colourants yield rich tones that mellow gracefully over time. Examination under natural light reveals subtle tonal shifts within individual wool strands, characteristic of traditional dyeing methods.