Parviz Tanavoli – Mafrashes, Tribal and Rural Weaves from Iran (3)

Artist and art historian Parviz Tanavoli presents the third volume in a series exploring traditional weaving in Iran. Following his books on salt bags and ‘khorjins’ (saddlebags), this volume is dedicated to ‘mafrashes’ (woven containers) and their role in daily life. Although these woven objects could be considered utilitarian household items, unlike containers used in urban settings, each is a unique and personal piece of art. Moreover, the ingenious adaptation and practicality of chests and cupboards in soft materials is as old as the seasonal migrations of these tribes of the Iranian Plateau. The book explores geographical differences, terminology, and history of weaving in Iran.