Shahsavan Tribe

Shahsavan Tribal Weaving: Bold Colors, Oversiz Kilims and Nomadic Utility

History

The word Shahsavan literally means “those who love the Shah.” According to historical accounts, Shah Abbas I of the Safavid dynasty created the Shahsavan tribal confederation by uniting Azeri tribes from the Moghan Plain with select Kurdish and Armenian clans, aiming to defend the empire’s northwestern borders from Ottoman threats. With strong royal backing, the Shahsavans developed a distinct identity—and one of the most prolific and refined weaving traditions in the Iranian plateau.

Detail of an antique  Shahsavan Shiraki pich, Circa 1870 A.D

Handwoven Pieces

Today, Shahsavan tribes are settled across a wide range of territory, from the northwestern plains of Iran to the central regions around Saveh. Their woven legacy is immense. They are widely regarded as the most prolific kilim weavers in Iran, producing not only volume but exceptional quality. Their repertoire includes kilims, salt bags (namakdan), saddlebags (khorjin), carry pouches, camel covers, and more—all with purposeful design and striking visual language.

An antique handmade Shahsavan saddlebag, Circa 1910 A.D

Region

Shahsavan weavings are often categorized by regional identifiers, such as Shahsavan of Hashtrud, Mianeh, or Bijar—each with its own aesthetic signature and technical nuances. Interestingly, pile rugs are less common among the Shahsavans, likely due to the mobile lifestyle of the tribe: kilims are lighter, faster to weave, and more versatile for use as containers, bedding, or covers.

 A Suzani Shahsavan kilim from Moghan in Ardebil, Circa 1965

Shahsavan Rugs

That said, some of the finest Shahsavan pile rugs on the market come from Saveh, known for their garden (bagh) and crown (taj) patterns. These rugs often feature cotton warps and pink-dyed wefts, a tell-tale sign of Shahsavan construction.

Detail of Semi-antique Taj Design Shahsavan rug, Circa 1955

Shahsavan Kilims

The world of Shahsavan kilims is vast—too expansive for any single book. However, certain hallmarks are universally recognizable:
– Larger-than-average sizes
– Oversized central medallions (toranj)
– Bold geometric designs
– Slit-weave (chackdar) or Suzani techniques
– High-quality wool
– Vivid colors like magenta, saffron yellow, and violet—colors chosen with courage and clarity.

An oversize long Shahsavan kilim from Hashtrud, Circa 1930

In fact, a significant share of all tribal and village flatweaves in Iran—in terms of both number and quality—can be attributed to the Shahsavan tradition. Their textiles are not just beautiful objects, but markers of identity, function, and storytelling woven into every line.