Afshar mixed technique cradle

This Afshar baby cradle is just one of several specific items woven by tribal women for immediate domestic use. Various techniques of flat weave have been utilized, with colorful striped abstract ‘boteh’ paisley forms drawn against a madder red ground. Interestingly, both dark and light wool have been dyed with the same red madder root creating the deeper brick tones of the ground. A simple sumak border, composed of several simple bands, frames the piece. Excess warp has been joined to form a network of decorative tassels, complete with colorful woolen bunches and blue ceramic beads. The original warp-faced woven handle straps are also preserved.