A Mafrash from the Qashqai people converted into a bench

 Where is home to a nomad? One answer is, wherever they make their bed. The Qashqai people make their beds in Central and Southern Persia, where they annually travel hundreds of miles with their flocks of sheep between summer and winter pastures. Their possessions are strapped to the sides of donkeys and horses as they wander the countryside; but they always rest in style, their bedding carried in rectangular cargo boxes called Mafrash.

Side view showing leather handles, straps and trim

This week’s New Arrival features a Mafrash that has been repurposed as a bench. The Qashqai are famous for their weaving – not their lifestyle. They make rugs and carpets that have a special place in the textile world because of their color, design and durability; and these are what cover a Mafrash. Transforming one into a bench actually makes perfect sense. After all, the Mafrash signifies the comfort of home, no matter where that may be.

(Call to inquire)