Gabbeh rugs are made by the Quashqai nomads of Southwestern Iran. They are considered Persian rugs but they are Tribal Persians. The wool is handspun by the elder women of the tribe. The yarn is then dyed with organic vegetable pigments which come primarily from roots and plants in the barren Zagros Mountains. Next a framework is constructed and the women of the tribe weave the rugs....one knot at a time. A large gabbeh rug can take up to a year to create and each rug is one of a kind.

The Archeo staff has just returned from a trip to Iran where we were fortunate to spend time with these joyful and creative nomads. Witnessing the painstaking evolution of these rugs has reinforced our belief that gabbehs are truly exceptional. It is the reason that we sell only gabbeh rugs. Each rug in our collection is chosen by hand. We go directly to the source so that we can offer only rugs of top quality and the most artistic designs. We invite you to learn about our gabbehs. To know them is to love them.

HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR GABBEH RUG

With very little care, a Gabbeh Rug will last for centuries.
We do offer a few recommendations for you.

GENERAL MAINTENANCE - Rugs can be vacuumed regularly.

SPOTS - Anything you would use on yourself, you can use on your Gabbeh. Use a mild soap and water to remove spots. Rinse the area well.

STAINS - For more stubborn spots, use a mixture of 1/2 water and 1/2 white vinegar, or use straight mineral water. Rinse well after.

CHEMICAL CLEANERS - Should NEVER be used on a Gabbeh. They strip the lanolin and leave the wool with a dull look.

PROFESSIONAL CLEANING - Gabbehs should periodically be professionally cleaned. Take them to a Persian or Oriental rug cleaner and tell them the rug is handspun wool with natural dyes. Ensure that the cleaner will not be using a chemical process.