How were saddlebags used by nomads?

Nomadic tribes utilised these double-pouch bags draped across pack animals to transport household goods, grain, and personal belongings during seasonal migrations. When camp was established, the bags served as floor storage containers inside tents. Their sturdy construction protected contents from weather and rough travel, combining practical daily utility with traditional tribal artistry.

How do I care for a textile bag face?

Protect the wool and natural dyes by keeping the textile out of direct sunlight to prevent fading. Gentle vacuuming through a mesh screen removes dust without disturbing the hand-spun fibres. Avoid hanging heavy pieces by single points; instead, support the weight evenly across a flat backing or display them safely as cushions.

What is the difference between a complete bag and a bag face?

A complete saddlebag retains both of its original compartments and the connecting slit panel, sometimes including the plain weave back or metal hardware. These intact sets represent the original functional form. A bag face is just the decorated front panel separated from the back over decades of use, often mounted or framed for wall display.

How can I tell different tribal styles apart?

Tribal attribution relies on specific combinations of knotting structures, wool characteristics, and distinct geometric or medallion motifs. Qashqai and Afshar pieces from southern Persia often use rich blues and reds with fine-grained detail. Anatolian Yuruk and Northwest Persian Shahsavan examples tend to display bolder banded weft work, sharper latch-hook patterns, and distinct palette choices rooted in their specific geographic regions.