Wool rug · Turkmen · Crimson red & navy

Medium-sized rug, densely hand-knotted by skilled weavers in northern Afghanistan in the sophisticated Khal Mohammadi weaving style, using premium highland wool and quality dyes. This medium piled rug displays beautiful natural lustre with dense, velvety texture.Twelve identical Turkmen inspired guls, containing intricate geometric and floral patterns in deep navy blue, are arranged in a grid across a vibrant crimson red field, framed by a distinctive scalloped border featuring alternating palmette motifs. The firm handle, medium pile displaying the characterstic sheen of Afghan carpets and expert edge finishing reflect generations of technical mastery.

The Craft. Turkmen weavers are renowned for creating extraordinarily tight weaves with very high knot density, using premium hand-carded and hand-spun wool that produces the characteristically silky, lustrous finish for which Turkmen carpets are celebrated. Their traditional techniques achieve mathematical precision in rendering distinctive gul medallions with remarkable symmetry and consistency. Turkmen rugs typically feature a medium pile height, which allows the vibrant colours, particularly the signature crimson red, to achieve their full depth and luminosity while maintaining the crisp definition of the intricate gul patterns.

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 piece was newly created by skilled weavers in northern Afghanistan (Andkhoy) in Turkmen style. The exceptional craftsmanship demonstrates the master weaver's skill and dedication to traditional Turkmen techniques, creating a work that represents both nomadic heritage and artistic excellence.