What is a sofreh used for?

A sofreh served as a domestic spread for dining or preparing bread within nomadic tents and village homes. These textiles protected food from the ground and held household provisions. Over time, these utility cloths became recognised for their striking geometric designs and regional tribal artistry.

How do I identify a tribal origin?

Tribal origins are identified through specific structural traits, dye palettes, and characteristic motifs associated with groups like the Qashqai, Afshar, or Bakhtiari. Each confederacy utilised distinct geometric vocabularies and colour combinations. Examining the weave type and secondary materials like goat hair provides further clues to the specific region of production.

Are these rugs suitable for modern floors?

These flatweaves add authentic texture and historical character to contemporary living spaces when paired with a quality rug underlay. Their flat structure makes them practical for placement in moderate-traffic areas. Many smaller formats function effectively as wall hangings, table covers, or accent pieces.

What is the difference between kilim and soumak?

A kilim is purely flatwoven by interlocking weft threads around the warps, creating a smooth surface on both sides. Soumak incorporates a wrapping technique that leaves floats on the reverse and adds physical texture to the face. Both methods produce durable textiles, but Soumak yields a heavier and more substantial handle.