Interesting Tribal Caucasian Shahsavan Bag, Weaving Origin: , Circa Date: 1900 – This exquisite and magnificently preserved antique Caucasian Shahsavan bag is an example of the artistry of a people who continue to live according to the traditions of a nomadic tribe that go back hundreds of years. These were originally saddlebags, and although they are beautiful, they were considered useful in the daily lives of the people.
The primitive designs on this tribal bag are symbols that tell the story of the weaver. It includes the ram’s horn, which is a symbol of strength. It also contains a diamond, which can represent a woman or serve as protection from the evil eye. The border includes one of many different representations of water, a resource that was precious in a desert climate. Many of these symbols are found throughout tribal rugs of the area.
The colors of the bag are bright and vibrant, which is a characteristic of these works that makes them highly collectible. They have a special primitive feel and would make an excellent piece of artwork in a traditional room, or among other tribal pieces. The nomadic nature of the Shahsavan makes smaller pieces, such as this, more common than large rugs.
The origins of the Shahsavan people has its roots in the 16th century during the Safavid Dynasty. The tribe was formed by those who chose to follow Shah Abbas and rise against the Kizilbash confederation. They were a pastoral people who continued to follow their tribal traditions until the mid-20th century. There is still a handful of them that continue to follow these traditions. This piece is a beautiful piece of work that represents the collective culture of a special, nomadic culture. It is an excellent primitive, tribal collector’s piece.
