The field guide · Motifs

Harshang (crab) خرچنگ

Harshang, from the Persian kharchang ('crab'), is a pattern of interlacing scrolling stems with large stylised palmettes, the 'crabs', where the stems meet and leaves, the 'claws', at their ends. Iranica describes it as a border pattern.

Also Kharchang · crab border

See also Shah Abbasi (palmette), Border

Last reviewed

Harshang: a detail of Shahreza Triple Toranj Flora and Fauna Persian Rug
Detail from Shahreza Triple Toranj Flora and Fauna Persian Rug →
In the collection

Harshang, in the collection.

Qashqai Crab Kilim
Qashqai Crab Persian Kilim RugN° 001
287 × 166 cm
Qashqai · Third Quarter 20th Century
$2,790AUD
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