Role of chigh in Iranian nomadic life
The history of anthropology shows that since the time of early humans, people have utilized resources from their environment — such as tree branches, foliage, goat and sheep wool, wood, and animal hides — to protect themselves from cold, heat, wind, rain, and other elements while maintaining clean and organized living spaces.
Sajjad Nazari, a cultural heritage expert, wrote that Iran, with its rich ancient culture, is no exception.
“Today, we see the construction and production of handcrafted tools rooted in the distant past. One such tool, still produced today and with various applications, is chigh. Its ongoing traditional production from unchanged raw materials highlights its significance and versatility. Nowadays, we even observe its mass production in certain areas.”
Chigh is used to cover the walls of nomadic black tents and is made from reeds that grow wild in the nomads’ living areas, along with goat hair. It prevents the entry of heat, cold, wind, rain, and dust into the tent. The hollow reeds act as thermal insulators, and when it rains, increased humidity causes the reeds to expand and bind together, resisting water infiltration. Additionally, the fatty layer in goat hair helps prevent water from penetrating.
Chigh is a handcrafted item made by nomads, used both individually and as a barrier around black tents. It also serves as a partition within the tent.
The finest examples of this weaving are crafted in vibrant colors featuring authentic and traditional patterns by some nomadic tribes in the province. Due to its beautiful color composition and high-quality weaving, chigh has been installed as the entrance display at the national handicraft exhibition.
The main materials used in its production are reeds, goat hair, and sheep wool, which can be found near rivers and streams in certain areas of Ilam province’s watersheds. These materials are harvested using sickles. Goat hair and sheep wool are readily available since the livelihood of nomadic people relies on herding.
Regarding the reeds, one of the key raw materials used, they are cut from the reed beds and transported to the workplace to dry. Once dried, the reeds are cut into specific sizes based on the intended use of the chigh.
For example, if the chigh is required for a location that demands greater strength, whole reeds are used. The size of the reeds is determined by the intended application and the height of the chigh. If the chigh is primarily decorative or designed for transportation, lighter reeds are preferred for easier handling. Typically, the reeds are halved lengthwise, and this splitting process is performed with sharp tools like knives to minimize the risk of breaking.
Regarding the processing and preparation of other raw materials used in chigh weaving, such as goat hair and sheep wool, this work is also carried out by nomads and villagers. If the chigh is intended for practical use, both goat hair and sheep wool are utilized. The harvesting methods for these raw materials are quite similar. Goat hair, after being sheared, is used to bind the reeds together. In contrast, after shearing the sheep’s fleece, the wool undergoes dyeing processes.
After preparing the wool fibers, the dyeing process begins. Dyeing involves applying color substances to specific fibers or woven goods under controlled conditions of temperature and time. It is crucial to use natural fibers, such as wool, which are classified as animal fibers. When selecting a color, factors such as absorption capability, uniformity, durability, and stability are also considered.