Qashqai Rug with Portrait and Honeybee Motifs

A Qashqai rug featuring portrait imagery, with four portraits depicted within the borders. Partridge motifs appear alongside two honeybees, an exceptionally rare element. Honey is one of the key products of nomadic life, and its appearance here reflects its cultural importance elevated into carpet motifs. Three medallions run through the center of the rug. Portrait weaving was not traditionally common in Iranian carpets and has only been practiced to a limited extent in the last century, mainly in Lori and Qashqai regions. The rug is abrash dyed with a medium pile.