How were saddlebags used?

Nomadic tribes utilised these double-sided pouches draped over horses, donkeys, or camels to carry belongings, grain, and personal items during seasonal migrations. Once inside the tent or settlement, they served as domestic storage containers for household goods before eventually being repurposed as decorative floor or wall textiles.

How do I display a bag face?

Many collectors mount these textile fragments securely on walls as flat art pieces to protect the wool from heavy floor traffic. Alternatively, smaller pieces are frequently backed and stuffed to function as decorative cushions or pillows on seating.

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

A complete saddlebag retains both sides of the original paired pouch, sometimes including the central connecting web and plain weave back. A bag face represents only the decorative front panel that has been separated from its operational reverse side, usually for display purposes.

How do I identify tribal origins?

Specific weave structures, colour palettes, and characteristic geometric motifs point directly to regional groups such as the Afshar, Shahsavan, or Qashqa'i. Examining the specific drawing style of borders and central medallions helps attribute the piece to particular areas like Fars Province or Western Persia.