Gabbeh rugs have their origins in the mountains of southwestern Iran, and woven by nomadic tribes who lived in and migrated through the Zagros mountain range. Nomadic tribes wove them for personal use, as bedding, floor coverings and wall hangings inside mobile tents. Often made from undyed wool blended into soft shades of cream, brown, black, and grey, they feature simple designs built around abstract pictorials — trees, animals, and people — alongside simple and sometimes bold geometric shapes. Their thick, long pile gives them a distinctively plush feel. Gabbehs are prized today for their versatility in the way they suit modern and contemporary interiors while remaining an authentic, hand-knotted piece of Iranian craft. The style first appeared around 400 years ago across the Fars province, and modern examples are produced today in and around the city of Shiraz.
