A fine example of a Kurdish Jaf bag face, this piece is top quality. Examine the fineness of the weave, the number of colors, and the general freedom and movement of design. The most interesting structural aspect of Jaf weaving, which sets them apart from most other tribal pile weaving, is the off-set knotting that is applied.
The lozenge design with internal 'birds' projecting from a center diamond is pre-Islamic and is clearly the legacy of an ancient design tradition. It is a design found in the weaving of many other tribal groups throughout the rug weaving world. According to many rug scholars, this design traces back 2500 years to the bronze totemic animal-headed figures unearthed in Luristan.
This bag face is in great condition with a full pile of soft plush wool. All dyes used to make it are organic. All sides and ends are original. The estimated time to hand knot this rug is about 300 hours.
