Caravans, Covers and Containers

Complete Saddle-Bag (khorjin)
Iran, probably Khorasan region, Kurdish Tribe
19th Century
Wool, reverse soumak (weft-wrapping)
63.5 x 152.4 cm (25 x 60 in.)
Dr. Arline J. Lederman & Dr. Edward A. Friedman Collection

ContainerKurdKhorjin
This complete saddle-bag is attributed to the Kurds of Khorasan region. It is decorated with a repeat design in reverse soumak technique, in which the color combinations form a sequence that is maintained throughout. Although the units of pattern are not precisely the same size in both bag faces, the weaver has attempted to fashion the same arrangement in both in mirror reverse. This bag was woven as a single strip and then sewn together.