This is a Persian Shiraz with a wool foundation which is typical. Qashqai tribes live around Shiraz area in Fars province and this is the reason some people refer to Shiraz rugs as Qashqai which usually has a cotton foundation, natural dyes in many cases, and is much finer than a Shiraz, and of course, more expensive. However, the price is very good. In order to preserve it, I recommend you get the selvedge binding repaired, and when it is time to have it cleaned again, let a professional cleaner do it for you. Washing a rug at home can damage it seriously. There is a short article about washing rugs in our blog if you would like to get more information about the subject.

This rug is about 50-55 years old. The repair on the binding will cost $200 and will be a good protection for it.