Vintage wool rug · Baluch · Indigo & charcoal

Medium-sized vintage rug, hand-knotted by skilled weavers in western Afghanistan using premium highland wool and natural dyes. Twenty-four perfectly rendered geometric squares, each containing a distinct star motif are laid in a unique colour palette of deep purple, charcoal and muted rust. The rug features intact low pile with exceptional natural lustre, and a very fine weave with supple handle that 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 contemporary piece was created by Baluch weavers in western Afghanistan. The exceptional craftsmanship demonstrates technical mastery and design evolution, bridging traditional techniques with contemporary aesthetics.