Saltbag

Persian Saltbags: A Forgotten Treasure of Nomadic Weaving

Among the most distinctive tribal textiles of Iran, Persian saltbags—known locally as namakdan—stand out as rare and culturally rich artifacts. Once essential in the daily life of Iranian nomadic tribes, these handmade storage bags were specially woven to hold salt: a vital resource not only for cooking, but also for livestock health during seasonal migrations.

Crafted by nearly all major weaving communities in Iran, including the Bakhtiari, Shahsavan, and other tribal groups, Persian saltbags represent a unique blend of function, symbolism, and artistry. Their characteristic shape—with a narrow neck and broader base—was not decorative alone. This smart design ensured that the contents wouldn’t spill even when the saltbag was hanging from a donkey or the interior of a tent.

While each Persian saltbag served a utilitarian purpose, tribes poured immense aesthetic care into their creation. From intricate geometric patterns to powerful tribal motifs, every detail reflected the weaver’s heritage, surroundings, and intent. The front face often carries a denser, more elaborate design, while the reverse side tends to be simpler—yet equally expressive.

Most surviving examples are flatwoven in kilim technique, though some rare saltbags also incorporate knotted-pile rug weaving. They were often finished with wool handles or loops, making them easy to carry or hang inside tents.

Because saltbags were utilitarian objects, they were produced in relatively small numbers compared to rugs or kilims. For decades, they were overlooked in the market and held little value. But in recent years, with rising awareness about sustainable living, tribal design, and the collectible value of nomadic textiles, Iranian saltbags have gained significant appreciation among collectors and interior designers alike.

Today, these artifacts are not just remnants of a bygone lifestyle—they are reminders of a time when every object was handmade with care, beauty, and respect for nature. In the world of handwoven Iranian art, few objects speak as intimately about daily tribal life and aesthetic values as the Persian saltbag.