The Qashquai are the largest and best known of Iran's nomadic tribes. They are thought to have migrated from the Caucasus in the eighteenth century to their present territories around Shiraz in the Fars province, southern Iran. They speak a dialect of Turkish. Their warlike character has led them into conflict with successive governments as well as with the other tribes of the area. Their skill in craftsmanship and love of colour are evidenced both in their rugs and the clothing of the women. There are many sub-tribes, of which the most important are the Bilverdi, the Shishboluki, the Darashuri and the Kashkuli.
The Qashquai weave several types of rugs. A characteristic product can be recognized by its all-wool construction, heavy ribbing on the reverse, strong deep colours (particularly the red), and the use of traditional motifs such as the 'Hashing' or crab. Typically, The Designs are geometrical with a row of three of five medallions down the middle of the rug, or in the center and corners. The whole field is generally covered with small geometric motifs. The Qashquai are famous also for their artefacts: horse blankets, saddlebags, ropes, etc. The products of other tribes, such as the Khamseh and Lori, are often confused with those of the Qashquai.
Qum is situated south of Tehran, on the road to Isfahan, in the Markazi or Central Province. It has a population of half a million; its proximity to Tehran has tended to curtail its development. As a center of pilgrimage it is second only to Hashed; it contains the tomb of Fatima, sister of the Imam Ali Reza, (who is buried in Mashad) plus the tombs of several Shahs.
The carpet industry was only developed in Qum in the 1930's since when it has developed a good reputation. Since there is no tradition or precedent to draw on, the weavers take motifs from various sources, and juxtapose and combine then. Some designs they copy outright: it is not unusual to see copies made in Qum of Joshqan or Sirjan rugs, much finer than the originals and with a silk pile. Otherwise, a wide variety of medallion and all-over design is made. The pile is either of silk (with warps and wefts of silk) or of wool or mixed wool and silk, with a cotton foundation. Knotting is generally fine. A wide range of colours is used, sometimes in combinations, which seems strange to westerners. A strong pink and green are particularly characteristic of the silk rugs. Qum rugs are made in all sizes. Other weaving centres which come within the general category of Qum are Shahreza.
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