Hand-Knotted Baluch Prayer Rug: Red & Midnight Blue Wool, Boteh Design

This authentic village prayer rug was hand-knotted by Baluch weavers of western Afghanistan. The glowing palette of deep madder red and midnight blue frames a pointed mihrab niche above a dense allover boteh pattern for a refined, meditative look.

Architectural paneling at the top, tiny eight-point stars, and serrated diamond guards complete a classic Baluch layout that reads both spiritual and graphic—perfect for collectors and moody, textural interiors.

Created on a ground loom with tightly packed asymmetric knots, the pile is low-medium, velvety, and durable. The back shows crisp knot rows, dark wool wefts, overcast selvages, and short original fringes—hallmarks of Baluch village work. Based on materials, dyes, and condition, this piece dates to the late 20th–early 21st century and has been exceptionally well kept.

Features:

Dimensions: 133 × 97 cm (≈ 4'4" × 3'2")

Origin & Group: Baluch weavers, Herat/western Afghanistan

Weaving Tradition: Village hand-knotted prayer rug with mihrab niche and panelled spandrels

Knot Structure: Asymmetrical (Senneh-type), typically open to the left for Baluch work

Knot Density (est.): ~90–115 KPSI (14–18 per sq. cm) giving crisp small motifs

Materials: Hand-spun wool pile; light cotton warps; dark brown/blue wool wefts; stable village dyes

Pile Height: Low-medium ≈ 4–6 mm; dense, even shear

Design (naqsha): Pointed mihrab over a repeating boteh field (flame/seed motif symbolizing life and protection); eight-point stars and flower rosettes as protective elements

Borders: Star-and-diamond main border with multiple floral guard stripes echoing the field’s boteh geometry

Age: Late 20th–early 21st c. (c. 1990–2010)

Condition: Very good vintage—full, even pile; strong edges; ends secured; mild, natural abrash; no repairs observed

Best Use & Style: Prayer corner, study, bedside, entry; pairs beautifully with boho, rustic, eclectic, Japandi, and maximalist schemes

Pricing Guidance: Comparable Baluch prayer rugs of this quality list around $195–$245

Care Instructions:

Vacuum gently with a brushless upholstery head; avoid beater bars

Rotate every few months for even wear and color exposure

Use a quality rug pad to prevent slip and extend life

Blot spills immediately; never rub

Spot clean with cool water and a pH-neutral wool detergent only

Avoid prolonged direct sunlight; diffuse light is fine

Professional hand-knotted wool cleaning as needed—no steam or dry cleaning

Bring home a soulful piece of Baluch craftsmanship—compact, graphic, and rich in symbolism. This luminous red-and-blue prayer rug adds history, warmth, and texture to any space.