Jal horse weaving art: a valuable heritage of Iranian nomadic culture
Jal Asb is one of the most delicate and valuable hand-woven nomads of Iran, which is known as a symbol of art, culture and identity of this people. In addition to its main function of protecting the horse’s saddle, this handwoven has been considered as a valuable work of art and a symbol of social status and wealth.
History and characteristics of Jal Asb
The roots of the art of jal asbbafi go back to the ancient and nomadic times of Iranian nomads. To protect their horse’s saddle from natural factors and wear, the nomads used cloaks that became more artistic and beautiful over time. The saddles of the horses gave a beautiful effect to the horse and the rider with various geometric, plant and animal designs and vivid and natural colors.
Materials and tools used in horse weaving
The raw materials used in horse weaving are usually wool, silk and cotton yarn, each of which has its own characteristics. Wool is used for its durability and warmth, silk for its softness and shine, and cotton for its coolness and softness. The tools used in this art also include loom, spindle, scissors, comb and needle.
Types of horse gel and its uses
Jal horses are divided into different types based on the area of texture, design and application. Each nomadic tribe and region uses its own designs and colors in the weaving of Jal Asb. In addition to being used for horse saddles, horse tails are also used as table cloths, panels and decorative elements in interior decoration.
The role of the horse in nomadic culture
Jal Asb was not just a practical tool, but had a special place in the nomadic culture. Among the reasons for the importance of Jal Asb, the following can be mentioned:
Symbol of wealth and social status: Nomads who had exquisite and ornamental horses showed their wealth and high social status.
Tribal identity: Each nomadic tribe uses its own designs and colors in the fabric of Jal Asb, which was considered a kind of tribal identity.
Gift and dowry: Noble horses were given to nomadic girls as gifts and dowries.
Use in ceremonies and celebrations: Horses were used in wedding ceremonies, celebrations and religious ceremonies.
Designs and symbols used in the front of the horse
The designs used on the horses are usually inspired by nature, mythology and nomadic beliefs. Some of The most common designs are:
Geometric designs: Squares, rhombuses, triangles, and straight lines are among the most common geometric designs in Jal Asb.
Vegetal designs: designs of flowers, plants and trees can be seen in some horses’ backs.
Animal designs: designs of animals such as goats, sheep, camels, lions and birds can be seen in some horses.
Mythological designs: designs of mythological creatures such as simorgh and dragon can be seen in some old horse saddles.
Raw materials and natural dyes in horsehair weaving
In addition to wool, silk and cotton thread, other natural materials such as goat hair, camel hair and camel wool were also used in the weaving of horse clothes. Natural vegetable and mineral dyes such as runas, indigo, turmeric, pomegranate peel and ash were used to dye wool and thread.