The Qashqai (Kashgay) is one of Iran's nomadic tribes, 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 and are known for their warlike character, craftsmanship, and love of colour.
Qashqai rugs are typically all-wool, with heavy ribbing on the reverse, strong deep colours (particularly red), and the use of traditional motifs such as the 'Hashing' or crab. 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 Old Shiraz rug is a Qashqai rug, handwoven with good-quality wool. It is very hard wearing as well as being very decorative and beautiful. The design is very interesting and is a very primitive way of showing the medallion and tribal motifs.