Gabbeh carpets, also known as Gabbeh rugs (Gabbeh Teppich) , are a traditional variety of Persian carpet which is commonly seen throughout the Middle East. A Gabbeh is a hand woven style of carpet with a coarse quality which is normally produced in size between 90cm to 160cm. The main distinguishing factor of a Gabbeh carpet is its abstract design, which is a mixture of many colours and multiple geometrical forms. While Gabbeh carpet is a form of Persian carpet, it is normally much courser and thicker than most Persian designs and is particularly associated with the Zagros mountains. The traditional nature of Gabbeh carpets mean that they are often seen in hotels and restaurants in Middle Eastern countries, where they are displayed to tourists and often available for purchase.

The Distinguishing Factors of Gabbeh Carpets

Gabbeh carpets are normally manufactured by women in a traditional setting, although there are some mass produced versions made in small factories and shops. The patterns used in a Gabbeh are normally very basic, which is what helps to give them such a distinctive appearance. The patterns that are used are mostly rectangular in nature, although the objects depicted also represent animals. Bright colours such as yellow and red are often used, with large fields of colour that are variegated throughout the design. Their distinctive colours and patterns are sometimes used in traditional and modern hotels to create links with the surrounding culture.

While originating in Persia, there are numerous versions of these carpets that are also being produced in India and Pakistan. The versions manufactured in these countries are normally not particularly authentic, and can easily be differentiated by the quality of the wool used and the details of the patterns used. Authentic Gabbeh carpets are normally much more durable and much softer, due to the quality of the wool available. Traditional wool rugs are often associated with areas of the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia, and there is a strong tourist-led market for them in all of these countries. As well as being easily available in countless shops around the Middle East, Gabbeh carpets are also regular features in hotels, restaurants, and other tourist locales.