Khorjins: Iran’s Tribal and Rural Textile Art ✅

Beyond their practical use in daily life, Khorjins—a type of traditional saddlebag—serve multiple purposes. In nomadic culture, these bags have become a form of expression and decoration, adding vibrancy and variety to the otherwise repetitive rhythm of seasonal migration.

Nomads use Khorjins as sacks, baggage carriers, and crates. They come in a variety of sizes, typically classified as small, medium, and large. Small and medium Khorjins consist of two parallel squares sewn together on a rectangular base, while large Khorjins—designed specifically for nomads—are made from two large rectangular pieces positioned opposite each other.

Small Khorjins, known as “Akbeh,” are usually used to hold documents, valuables, personal items, and jewelry. Women riders often hang Akbeh Khorjins on saddles to carry their belongings during travel.

The most common Khorjins, hung in front of animals, feature two wide fabric panels about sixty centimeters long, adorned with buttons, patterns, and decorative pom-poms. These pom-poms, called Varaneh, move as the animal trots, helping to ward off bees and other insects while preventing the horse from tilting its head to escape flies.

Medium Khorjins, typically measuring 100 by 50 centimeters, are used to carry food and everyday tools. In Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari, they are also used to transport daily essentials. Large Khorjins, favored by the Bakhtiari tribe, measure 100 by 150 centimeters and feature rectangular pockets, wider than they are tall.

Cities such as Darjuneh, Chelgard, and Kuhrang are key centers for Khorjin craftsmanship, keeping this vibrant element of nomadic life alive.