Vintage Baluch Prayer Rug: Hand-Knotted Wool, Camel & Red Mihrab Design

Collected from a private estate, this compact tribal rug was hand-knotted by Baluch weavers in western Afghanistan. The stepped mihrab niche, camel-colored ground and ram’s-horn / latch-hook geometry are classic for this tradition. Rich madder reds, dark indigo-brown and soft undyed camel tones create an earthy palette that plays beautifully with wood floors and neutral walls. Small enough for an entry, hearth or wall hanging—and packed with story.
Weaving tradition & structure (authentication)

Tradition: Baluch tribal weaving from western/north-west Afghanistan; the camel-ground prayer layout with stepped niche and small geometric repeats is a signature of this group.

Knotting: Asymmetrical (Senneh) knots, open to the left, typical for Baluch work. This is visible in the back where knots sit slightly offset with fine, vertical warp “rows.”


Foundation & materials: Tightly Z-spun wool pile; cotton warps (ivory fringe) with dark wool wefts and overcast wool selvedges.


Pile height & handle: Medium, around 6–7 mm; dense yet pliable handle—great for floor use or hanging.

Dyes: Madder-derived reds, indigo/blue-black, walnut/earth browns, mustard, ivory; the camel field reads as undyed camel-hair/wool tone—a beloved feature in Baluch prayer pieces.

Knot density: approx. 90–110 kpsi (about 30–35 knots/10 cm across the width), a good tribal weave.

Design, motifs & cultural context

Layout (naqsha): A single stepped mihrab field framed by multiple guards. Inside the niche is a lattice of hooked lozenges, hourglass “butterflies” and small cross diamonds—protective forms believed to avert the evil eye and bring prosperity.

Motifs:

Ram’s-horn “S”/scrolls for strength and protection.

Latch-hook diamonds/ashiks for good fortune.

Hourglass/bow-tie elements symbolizing balance and fertility.

Borders: Main border with a running stepped meander and small floral/rosette guards—closely related to Baluch border repertoires—creating a rhythmic frame that echoes the angular hooks in the field.

Age & condition

Dating: 1970s–1980s based on palette, foundation mix (cotton warps with wool wefts), and the crisp handle with only light, even tip wear.


Condition: Very good vintage. Pile is healthy and even; ends secured with original white fringe; sides overcast and intact. Minor age-appropriate abrash (natural dye striation) and tiny scattered specks typical of hand-spun wool—no holes, no repairs visible in photos.

Features:

Type: Hand-knotted Baluch camel-ground prayer rug

Origin: Western Afghanistan (tribal workshop)

Size: 1.23 × 0.77 m | approx 4.0 × 2.53 ft (48.4" × 30.3")

Warp/Weft: Cotton warps; wool wefts

Pile: Hand-spun sheep’s wool (with camel-tone field)

Knot: Asymmetrical (Senneh), ~90–110 kpsi

Pile height: ~6–7 mm (medium)

Colors: Camel, madder red, dark indigo/navy, walnut brown, mustard, ivory

Age: c. 1975–1990

Condition: Very good vintage; ends and sides secure; light, honest wear only
Authentic Baluch prayer design with stepped mihrab—lovely as a wall hanging or for meditation corners.

Camel-ground look—warm neutral that works with contemporary and rustic interiors.

Compact size perfect for entry, hearth, bedside, powder room or layered over a larger kilim.

Durable all-wool pile on cotton foundation—made to last.

Naturally variegated dyes (abrash) add character and depth.

Care instructions:

Use a quality rug pad to prevent movement and extend life.

Vacuum weekly with suction only (no beater bar); vacuum the underside seasonally.

Rotate every 3–6 months for even wear and sun exposure.

Blot spills immediately with a clean, dry cloth; avoid soaking.

For deep cleaning, use a professional hand-wash service experienced with vegetable-dyed rugs.

Store rolled, not folded, in a breathable sleeve with a touch of cedar or lavender.


Bring home a genuine, hand-knotted tribal work—rich in symbolism and perfectly sized for modern living. Add to cart with confidence, or reach out for more photos and a video in natural light.