Vintage wool rug · Baluch · Burgundy & navy

Medium-sized vintage rug, hand-knotted by skilled weavers in western Afghanistan using premium highland wool and natural dyes. Intricate geometric patterns and traditional Baluch motifs of stylised flowers and protective symbols are spread on a deep burgundy field, framed by an elaborate border with multiple guard stripes and reciprocal patterns. The fine weave and supple handle of this rug, and the intact low, velvety pile with exceptional natural lustre demonstrate the weaver's versatility in techniques passed down through generations.

The Craft. Baluch weavers are known for using hand-carded and hand-spun wool of high quality, to create supple, portable weaves, with high knot density. Their traditional techniques produce meticulously rendered geometrical shapes with intricate details, demonstrating mathematical precision and sophisticated design understanding, often rendered from memory. Fineness of stitch and tightness of weave are characteristic, as is the generally sombre natural colouring with its harmonious interplay of hues, with depth and subtle tonal variations that synthetic dyes cannot replicate.

The Heritage. The beginnings of carpet making in Afghanistan are lost in history, as this country's strategic location on the ancient Silk Road attracted numerous nomadic tribes, and caught the eye of many an empire. Despite decades of upheaval, Afghan artisans have maintained their commitment to this treasured tradition, which has served as both cultural preservation and vital livelihood. The craft reflects the country's ethnic diversity, with hundreds of tribes and clans, from the Turkmen Tekke and Ersari to the Baluch Rukhshani and Aimaq, contributing their ancient motifs and mastery to what has become known today as the Afghan rug - one that tells a story of resilience, artistry, and the enduring spirit of the Afghan people.

The Maker. This vintage piece was created by Baluch weavers in western Afghanistan. The Baluch tribes, renowned for their bold geometric sensibilities and masterful use of symbolic motifs, created rugs that served as both practical furnishings and cultural expressions for nomadic families.